New Delhi: With reports indicating that South Africa is one among the handful of nations still opposing NSG entry for India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s forthcoming visit to that country may change things, the way his Switzerland and Mexico visit succeeded in doing.
As reported earlier, apart from South Africa, Mr Modi is also set to visit Kenya and Mozambique next month with some reports suggesting that Tanzania is also on the itinerary. Reuters had reported last week that apart from China, a few other countries such as New Zealand, Ireland, Turkey, South Africa and Austria were also opposing Indian entry into the 48-member Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
But Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to South Africa, expected in July, will come after the crucial NSG meet in the South Korean Capital Seoul that is expected within the next fortnight.
But with China steadfast in opposing India’s entry, chances of an immediate entry into the grouping appear bleak.
But with Government sources indicating that India’s efforts to join the NSG are an ongoing process, New Delhi is expected to continue with its efforts at gradually eliminating opposition from the few countries that are opposing its entry.
Total consensus in the NSG is needed for any country to join as a member. Prime Minister Modi is expected to personally persuade South Africa to back India’s candidature in case New Delhi’s efforts to secure entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group at the Seoul meet fail.
