War veterans urge US Cong to ratify US-Indo N-deal

Washington, July 20: A bipartisan group of foreign war veterans, representing eight nationwide organisations, has urged the US Congress to ratify the India-US civil nuclear initiative quickly as it is in the best interests of America's national security.

''Because of history, size, location, commitment to democracy, its military and economic strength and its opposition to Islamic terrorism, India can be an important part of America's security in the region,'' said several veterans at a press conference here last night.

The India-US civilian nuclear deal has long-term strategic benefits for the US, the region and India, they said urging the Congress to complete its work on the landmark agreement and lay the groundwork for increased security and cooperation with India as it is in America's security interest.

This is the first time that the war veterans, numbering over millions, have come together in a significant show of support for the passage of legislation that would allow India's access to sensitive American civil nuclear technology for its growing energy needs. In exchange, India will open up its non-military reactors for permanent international safeguard.

The legislation is now pending before the House of Representatives and the US Senate for floor debate and vote which is expected to come soon.

The veterans represented several groups like Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Reserve Officers Association, Reserve Enlisted Association, Korean War Veterans, American Military Society, Armed Forces Top Enlisted Association, Gold Star Wives of America and Retired Enlisted Association.

They said, ''our nation faces potential future threats from a militarily aggressive China, from the potential of regional nuclear weapons falling into anti-American hands, to an Iranian or North Korean nuclear threat. However a strong India will help deter war,'' the veterans said.

They said, ''Americans want peace, and a strong India can help us maintain peace.'' Michael Wysong, Director, National Security and Foreign Affairs for the VFW, said, ''the VFW wholeheartedly supports this agreement.

We view this strategic partnership with India as a matter of national security.'' The event was organized by Indian American Security Leadership Council, headed by Ramesh V. Kapur of Massachusetts.

UNI

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