NSG divided on non-NPT nations becoming members: China

China has said that more talks were needed to build a consensus on which countries can join the Nuclear Suppliers Group, NSG controlling access to sensitive nuclear technology, after a push by the United States to include India. In a statement yesterday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said, large differences remain over the issue of non-NPT countries joining the NSG. 

Hong said, China consistently supports having ample discussion on this to seek consensus and agreement and come to a unanimous decision. 

According to



diplomats, China is seen as leading opposition to the US move to include India in the 48-nation NSG, but other countries, including New Zealand, Turkey, South Africa and Austria also oppose Indian membership. The NSG aims to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons by restricting the sale of items that can be used to make those arms.

India already enjoys most of the benefits of membership under a 2008 exemption to NSG rules granted to support its nuclear cooperation deal with Washington. NSG plenary meeting will begin in Seoul on 20th of this month.