Japan activists, media denounce Indian nuclear deal

07/09/2008 20:37:15

Japanese media and activists have denounced a decision allowing India to engage in international nuclear trade, warning it could hinder future efforts to completely abolish nuclear weapons.

Japanese media lamented Tokyo's decision to follow the US initiative despite a long-held policy by Japan to work towards non-proliferation.

The Nuclear Suppliers Group, which controls the export and sale of nuclear technology, has approved a one-off waiver of its rules for India which has not signed the Non Proliferation Treaty and has tested nuclear bombs.

Yomuri Shimbun says the exception for India could prompt Iran and North Korea to seek the same treatment by interpreting the deal to their advantage

The Asahi Shimbun points to the fact that the Nuclear suppliers group was created in response to the 1974 Indian nuclear experiment.

Japan is the only nation that has experienced nuclear attacks.

Produced by Radio Australia and Australia Network