Despite China's opposition, India to continue fight for NSG membership

Notwithstanding China's opposition to its entry into the NSG, India said today that it will continue its engagement with member countries and there will be no let up in its efforts to work towards securing the membership of the elite group.

This assumes significance after China, earlier this week, said there is no change in its stance on admission of non-NPT states into the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), ahead of the grouping's plenary meeting next month in Switzerland.

"Our efforts for an NSG membership will continue. We will continue to be engaged with member countries. Our efforts will continue and there will be no let up in our efforts," Gopal Baglay, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson, said.

The plenary session of the NSG is likely to be held in the Swiss capital Bern next month, but the chances of any breakthrough on India's entry into the elite group still look slim, given China's persistent opposition to it.

India on its part has been continuing its effort to get support of other members of the grouping.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Germany, Spain, Russia and France next week, the issue is expected to come up for discussion with the leaders of these four countries.