WASHINGTON, June 10: United States has stated that nature of relationship with India and Pakistan is quite different and that Islamabad’s application to join Nuclear Supplier Group (NSG) will be considered by consensus at upcoming NSG meeting Vienna.
Addressing daily news briefing, US State Department Deputy Spokesman Mark Toner said America’s ties with Pakistan are significant however Haqqani Network is a consistent challenge while US-Indian relation is of different nature.
Responding to a question about Pakistan’s inclusion in NSG regime, he said that Islamabad has submitted the application last week, and every country is eligible to apply, further adding that Washington is currently reviewing Pakistan’s application.
He said that any decision on Pakistan’s inclusion in NSG will be made by consensus at meeting in Vienna, while confirming that US fully backs NSG membership for India.
On the occasion, he also confirmed that a top level US delegation is currently in Pakistan to hold meetings with Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership to discuss bilateral ties.
To another question, he said Pakistan and India should improve bilateral ties for regional stability. Enhanced ties among Pakistan, India and Afghanistan are better for the South Asian region, he added.-Sabah