WASHINGTON — Senators have agreed to vote today on a U.S.-India nuclear-cooperation accord, clearing a major hurdle that had been blocking consideration of the landmark pact that would overturn 30 years of U.S. nonproliferation policy.
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid told his colleagues late Tuesday that the Senate also would consider two amendments seeking to deal with the U.S. reaction should India conduct another atomic test. The amendments reflect an attempt to make sure that U.S. nuclear exports do not help boost India’s nuclear-weapons program.
The accord would allow American civilian nuclear trade with India in exchange for safeguards and U.N. inspections at India’s civilian nuclear plants. Military plants would be off-limits.
Opponents say the Senate has failed to examine carefully a deal that could spark an atomic arms race in Asia.
The accord, a top priority of President Bush, enjoys wide support from senior lawmakers in both parties. The House approved it Saturday.
The Associated Press
