U.S. lawmakers have agreed on the terms of a bill that would create a landmark U.S.-India civilian nuclear cooperation pact.
News reports say lawmakers on Thursday softened a provision in the bill that would have required India to cooperate with the U.S. on restraining Iran's nuclear program.
Democratic Congressman Tom Lantos of California said the compromise bill gives President Bush the flexibility to negotiate the best deal possible with India. He said it also preserves congressional oversight.
Lawmakers in the Senate and House of Representatives are expected to vote on the bill on Friday. If approved, it would go to Mr. Bush for his signature.
The bilateral deal would give India access to U.S. nuclear fuel and technology in return for a pledge to open its civilian nuclear facilities to international inspections.
President Bush and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh agreed on the nuclear cooperation deal in July 2005.
News reports say lawmakers on Thursday softened a provision in the bill that would have required India to cooperate with the U.S. on restraining Iran's nuclear program.
Democratic Congressman Tom Lantos of California said the compromise bill gives President Bush the flexibility to negotiate the best deal possible with India. He said it also preserves congressional oversight.
Lawmakers in the Senate and House of Representatives are expected to vote on the bill on Friday. If approved, it would go to Mr. Bush for his signature.
The bilateral deal would give India access to U.S. nuclear fuel and technology in return for a pledge to open its civilian nuclear facilities to international inspections.
President Bush and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh agreed on the nuclear cooperation deal in July 2005.