Bush says US-India nuclear deal, criticized in both countries, is good policy

Enlarge Photo Bush says US-India nuclear deal, criticized in both countries, is good policy

Wed, Jul 9 05:25 AM

TOKYO, Japan (AP) _ U.S. President George W. Bush says a troubled deal to sell India nuclear fuel and technology is good for both nations, even though it has drawn fire in both countries. Bush said he and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh discussed the agreement in a meeting on the final day of a gathering of leaders of the world's top economic powers.

He said they talked about the pact "and how important it is for our respective countries." American critics worry the agreement could spark a nuclear arms race in Asia.

Indian critics say it would give Washington too much influence over its nuclear program. Time is running out for the U.S. Congress to ratify the pact.

Singh said India and the U.S. "must stand shoulder to shoulder" on pressing issues.

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