The NSG statement that “participating governments reiterated their firm support for the full, complete and effective implementation of the NPT as the cornerstone” of membership of the elite group sounded like it was parroting the Chinese stance on India’s application for membership. The only relief is that Pakistan’s membership bid was also foiled. This is a slap on India’s face given the personal investment made in it by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Aseem Asthana

New Delhi