US committed to 'N' deal, could be delayed

New Delhi, Nov 9: Notwithstanding the beating from Democrats in the legislative elections, the Bush Administration is committed to the civilian nuclear agreemeent with India and the issue could be addressed in the 'lame duck' session of the Congress next week, ''possibly on Wednesday or Thursday''.

The clinching of the deal could, however, get delayed, US Ambassador to India David Mulford admitted today.

Speaking to reporters, he sought to allay fears of the deal going bust with the defeat of Republicans and said the Bush Administration was committed to it and there was widespread support among the Congress.

''There is very strong bipartisan support to the agreement...the Senate intends to address the issue in the lame duck session...the prognosis is very good and there is consensus between Republicans and Democrats,'' he said.

He, however, said it was difficult to predict what would happen in the 'lame duck' session.

Even if there was delay, the Administration as well as the Congress remained committed.

Asserting that there was widespread support to Indo-US relations, Mr Mulford said, ''it is a comprehensive relationship which is going full blast.'' Replying to a question, he said both countries have been discussing the 123 agreement and several meetings have been held.

Pointing out that the success of the discussions depended on a lot of things, the Ambassador said it was, nevertheless, an integral part of putting into place the main agreement.

He said President Bush had indicated his three priorities-- the deal with India, the deal with Vietnam and budgetary proposals.

''The Civilian Nuclear Bill is a well-defined Bill, capable of being acted upon in a short time,'' he added.

UNI