US-India Nuclear Deal a Disarmament Meltdown

Australian Greens Senator Scott Ludlam today called on Foreign Minister Stephen Smith to reject any nuclear cooperation deals with India.

"The US-India deal is a disaster for disarmament. It is very likely to set off a chain reaction of tension in the region, including a nuclear arms race," he said.  

"This pet project of George Bush rewards India for developing nuclear weapons and standing outside the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). This is exactly the opposite message Australia should be sending as champions of nuclear disarmament.

"The Australian Greens welcome the International Commission for Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament announced by Kevin Rudd after his visit to ground zero in Hiroshima. We also welcome the Rudd government's decision to not sell uranium to India.

"For our disarmament efforts to be credible and successful, Australia needs to be clear and consistent. India and Pakistan are countries in our neighbourhood pouring enormous investment into developing their nuclear arsenals and the doctrines aimed at fighting nuclear war

"Arguing that some of India's facilities will come under safeguards through this process is a false argument.  Giving India special treatment fatally undermines the whole idea of standards, which are about equal responsibilities for all states.

"Australia should not support the US-India deal in the Nuclear Suppliers Group because it undermines ALP policy, which is very clear on promoting the NPT and its safeguards which India has rebuffed.  

"Even Hans Blix, former IAEA Director General and promoter of nuclear energy has said that this deal risks fuelling an arms race in Asia. This deal rewards proliferators and throws a spanner in the already stressed global disarmament machinery.  

For comment contact Felicity Hill: 0417 174 302

www.scottludlam.org.au

Media Release: Senator Scott Ludlam
Australian Greens Senator for WA

25 July 2008