'Nuke deal important part of Indo-US relationship'

Expressing commitment to the Indo-US nuclear deal, the US has said the historic agreement is an important part of the bilateral relationship and is beneficial to both countries.

"This agreement will bring India into the nuclear non-proliferation mainstream, providing access to technology which can help it reach its economic and environmental objectives. The US remains committed to this agreement," US Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson said ahead of his visit to India this week.

Noting that the historic agreement on civilian nuclear cooperation is an important part of the US-India ties, he said "India is one of the world's largest and most peaceful states with advanced nuclear technologies, and has been isolated from the rest of the world on nuclear issues".

"The US and India also share the challenge of ensuring secure and clean energy supplies. We understand that economic growth and environmental responsibility are necessary, compatible goals. Moving forward with the civilian nuclear agreement is one part of the solution. Working together on a post-2012 framework through the UN climate change process is another," he said at the Council on Foreign Relations here.

"As with any democratic transformative effort, India faces political challenges -- something the United States also knows well. The government is to be applauded for what it has already accomplished, and encouraged to move forward. We stand with them as a partner as they do," he added.