U.S. Chamber Praises House for Passing U.S.-India Civilian Nuclear Agreement, Urges Senate to Follow Suit

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Lt. Gen. Daniel W. Christman (Ret.), chairman of the Coalition for Partnership with India and senior vice president for International Affairs at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, issued the following statement regarding House passage of H.R. 5682, the United States and India Nuclear Cooperation and Promotion Act of 2006:

"We're pleased the House took an important step today in advancing the landmark U.S.-India civilian nuclear cooperation agreement. But it was only one step in many that now must follow. While Congress has the right—and responsibility—to examine this deal closely, it must also do so in an expeditious manner. The sooner the agreement is finalized, the sooner American companies and citizens can begin to enjoy its significant economic and national security benefits.

"The United States and India negotiated this agreement with tremendous good faith and in anticipation of strengthening an historic alliance between two of the world's great democracies. It would be truly unfortunate for that vision to get bogged down in the legislative meat grinder. We therefore urge Congress to move as quickly as possible in making this agreement a reality."

www.uschamber.com

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