Civilian Nuclear Pact between France and India was signed earlier this week on 30 September. This agreement was a result of the one day EU – India summit that took place in France's southern port of Marseille where Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh met French President Nicolas Sarkozy and President of the European Commission, Jose Manuel. The main issues included space, terrorism, climate and nuclear development. "We both agreed on the need to reform international institutions, including the United Nations, to more effectively deal with these issues. We agreed to enhance cooperation in the area of counter-terrorism" said Indian Prime Minister after the India - France Summit.
Bilateral relations between EU and India are dated back to 2004 when a strategic partnership contract was signed. A Free – trade agreement is expected to be signed by 2009 with constant on going talks. European Commission had asserted that a budget of 500 million euros be assigned for problems pertaining health, education and reduction of poverty in the next five years.
The pact formed a landmark in the history of India and France. "Today we have added a new dimension to our strategic partnership. France is the first country with whom we have entered into such an agreement after lifting of international restrictions on civil nuclear cooperation with India by the Nuclear Suppliers Group. I conveyed to President Sarkozy our gratitude for France's consistent support to our civil nuclear initiative," announced Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. After 34 years of international isolation, this is Delhi's initiative towards nuclear safety, protection and fuel cycle management.
This bilateral collaboration between India and France have enabled French companies like Areva to open doors to more than one billion people. India presently has 22 nuclear reactors and will soon own two third generation European pressurized reactors and a supply of nuclear fuel.
India in 1950s developed nuclear energy under the Atoms for Peace Program. However, it did not sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty calling it biased towards some nations. India was banned from nuclear trade in 1974 after the first atomic test. However this ban was removed in September this year by a group of 45 countries that provide nuclear material and technology.
On October 1, U.S. – India nuclear deal also received an acceptance by the Senate. U.S. companies have opened the corridor to business in Indian Market. President Bush said this "will strengthen our global nuclear non proliferation efforts, protect the environment, create jobs and assist India in meeting its growing energy needs in a responsible manner."
Victorious Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's government has yet again achieved a milestone in building partnership with France and U.S. This is a breakthrough in the history of India. Undoubtedly it will have a boomerang effect on nations that have targeted India and the Indians especially this year. However, it will cause weakening of deterrence. Aim would be to use this increasing power for peaceful purposes. Neighbouring nations would also be naturally inclined to form nuclear deals and receive support. This expansion of Nuclear power was carried forward without signing the NPT which may be yet another cause of concern. Nevertheless it will be operational after signing the safety agreements by IAEA.
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