Back in the United States, President Bush has signed into law a deal that lifts a 30-year-old ban on sending nuclear technology to India.

President Bush: “The relationship between the United States and India has never been more vital, and this bill will help us meet the energy and security challenges of the 21st century.”

Under the deal, the United States will send nuclear fuel shipments for civilian use. Critics say this could spark a regional arms race because it will allow India to use existing nuclear fuel to build up to 50 nuclear weapons. The deal was also approved despite previous sanctions over India’s alleged help with Iran’s nuclear program. In 2004, the U.S. government penalized two high-ranking Indian government scientists for allegedly passing on heavy-water nuclear technology to Iran. Two other Indian companies were also penalized for passing on chemical weapons information.