Boucher hails 'historic' Indo-US nuclear deal

Washington, Oct 2 (UNI) US Assistant Secretary of State Richard Boucher today hailed the Indo-US nuclear deal as a historic achievement.

''It's a moment to celebrate,'' Mr Boucher told CNN-IBN. ''Let's just go forward, ratify the deal. The bill passed through the Congress authorises us to finalise the 123 text and put it into effect.'' ''The deal is good for nuclear commerce and good for India's development. The deal will produce business and commerce,'' he added.

Replying to a question whether Pakistan would get a similar deal, Mr Boucher asserted that the deal is a,''unique arrangement based on India's need.'' ''It's a India specific deal and has got nothing to with any other country. It is good to have India as a partner in nuclear proliferation,'' he remarked.

However, he was non-committal when asked if the deal will be signed during US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's upcoming visit to India.

''These are the commitments and we stand by them. It's a chance for her (Rice) to go out and talk to the Indian leaders and celebrate the achievement. We are now on a new platform,'' he said.

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