'There are and there will be contradictions'
How do you see America? What are the issues on their mind?
It's clear that as the negotiations proceeded after July 18, the US position became hard with regards to the number of reactors to be put under safeguards, with regards to research facilities, with regards to perpetual safeguards. And still there was no clear indication that fuel supply will also be in perpetuity. I am amazed at the torturous manner in which this fuel supply has been described in the separation plan. One to four…why?
Why can't they say yes, we will get fuel supply? First there will be a change in US laws. Then, if it is not good enough we have an agreement with the IAEA for fuel supply in which the US will join us. Third, we will have friendly countries like Russia, France and the UK in guaranteeing us supply. Fourth, we will have the right to corrective measures. Very torturous!
I asked why is America into this deal?
It's very clear that if this deal goes through then it takes forward the strategic partnership between US and India. It's very clear.
It will be of mutual advantage, right?
Of course, it could be for the mutual advantages.
Could be?
Yes. Because there are still problems. Whether it's Iran or Myanmar or some other country.
Particularly the difference is in perception of democratic initiatives, right?
Not only in that. We have our interest, which I call essential national interest and the US also has it. There will be contradictions. There are and there will be contradictions.
Coming back to my first question, the New York Times and The Economist and many others have said 'kill the deal.' So, obviously, it's good for India, isn't it?
It's very clear that what they want is that India should join the NPT and give up its nuclear weapons program. Their criticism doesn't automatically mean that India has got the big deal. They want India to roll back its nuclear weapons program, destroy whatever it has and join the NPT as a non-nuclear weapons state.
In the picture: President APJ Abdul Kalam at a cultural event in Yangon, Myanmar during his visit in March 2005
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