Wisner optimistic of nuclear deal getting US Senate nod

Mumbai, Mar 17 (UNI) The introduction of the legislative proposal in US Senate two days ago on the recent bilateral agreement between US and India on various issues, including the nuclear deal, has generated a lot of debate among the political, social and media circles and the prospects of the Senate clearing the Bill is good, according to former US Ambassador to India Frank Wisner.

''I am optimistic, but cautious for the next couple of days,'' Mr Wisner, who is presently the vice chairman (external) of US insurance major AIG, told mediapersons here today on eve of the three-day Asian Corporate meet organised by the Asia Society.

He said the recent visit of US President George W Bush to India has flared up lot of enthusiasm among the US citizens to know more about India's ability, not only in economic advancement, but also in educational, knowledge, social and cultural sectors.

''For building up US-India connection, Mr Bush's visit was exceptional since both the successive governments (BJP-led NDA and Congress-led UPA) made it possible for US to go forward and create the much-needed confidence building measures between the two nations,'' he observed.

The week-long debate at the US Senate would lead to huge publicity for the US-India relationship and there is every prospect of the Senate approving the bilateral deal between the two nations on nuclear agreement, he said adding that the issue was receiving support from US corporates, media and critics as well.

UNI GC GK LR ND1718