Chances of India joining the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project brightened today with the European Union (EU) backing India’s bid. It also opened the doors for Indian participation in the EU-led Galileo project, Europe’s own global navigation satellite system. Before European Council president and British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh addressed the India-EU summit, Benita Ferrero Waldner, EU Commissioner for External Affairs, said that these steps were being taken in recognition of India’s proven scientific capabilities in these areas. She, however, made it clear that EU supports the Non-Proliferation Treaty and would like all countries to become a part of it. ‘‘We and the US are unanimous that India join ITER. There are other countries in the project but I am very positive about the result. We will be working towards India’s participation in the project.’’ The Indian application is expected to be taken up on September 13. US and EU are key members spearheading the ITER project which will be located at Cadarche in France. Other members are Russia, China, Japan and South Korea. But on India’s nuclear status in the backdrop of the recent Indo-US joint statement, Waldner said: ‘‘We are believers that the NPT is the cornerstone to all efforts to stop proliferation. And we will continue to urge countries to join the NPT.’’ Waldner emphasised the importance of the joint action plan agreed to by both sides today. ‘‘It is an ambitious plan that takes the relationship to a strategic level. We have very few countries with which we have such a relationship.’’ Singh, Blair agree: markets need to be tapped On the strong EU-China ties despite the latter not being a democracy, she said the European Union maintains independent relations with each country. ‘‘We value each relationship according to its merits.’’ China’s growing economic muscle and its links with the European economy, especially in providing social services, are issues which cannot be ignored by the EU. In comparison, Waldner pointed out, India is seen as a key partner precisely because of its democratic polity and the growing stature of its economy. The two sides have also agreed to cooperate on combating terrorism. Waldner was of the view that the progress of the dialogue between India and Pakistan will contribute to peace in the region. Though neither side had expressed such desire, she said EU was ready to assist in any manner to take the dialogue process forward.
