Friday, March 17 2006 10:25 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Washington : Republican Congressman Joe Wilson has hailed the introduction of legislation in the US Congress, aimed at facilitating the US-India nuclear agreement, as yet another building block in the development of relations between Washington and New Delhi.

"By introducing bipartisan legislation to amend the Atomic Energy Act, Congress will initiate the important process of authorising peaceful nuclear cooperation between two great democracies that share similar values, goals, and hopes for the future," he said in a statement.

Wilson said that although the title of the agreement focuses on nuclear cooperation, the scope of the proposal reaches far beyond nuclear issues.

"Improved strategic relations with India will promote non-proliferation, increase our energy independence, provide environmental protections, strengthen our national security, and create thousands of new jobs for American workers," he said.

"As the global economy becomes increasingly competitive and the threat of terrorism endangers all free nations, America faces a historic opportunity with our friend India, "South Carolina lawmaker said.

According to Wilson, both countries "Should take advantage of this unique chance to deliver tremendous mutual benefits to both Indian and American families".