Bush signs nuclear deal with India into law

WASHINGTON, Dec 18 (Reuters) President George W Bush today signed into law a nuclear deal with India in a majorstep toward allowing New Delhi to buy U S reactors and fuel for the first time in 30 years.

''The relationship between the United States and India has never been more vital and this bill will help us meet the energy and security challenges of the 21st century,'' President Bush said at the bill-signing ceremony.

The White House had pushed for the legislation, which was overwhelmingly approved by Congress this month, in a bid to expand ties with the world's largest democracy and increase trade for U S companies.

Critics say the deal undermines efforts to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons.

''The United States and India are natural partners, the rivalries that once kept our nations apart are no more,'' Mr Bush said, citing similarities within the two democracies.

''India is an important ally in the war against extremists and radicals,'' he said.

Reuters SB DB2141