Bush finally Signs Nuclear Deal

President George Bush finally made the Indo-US civilian nuclear deal official today at at 2.25 pm by in the East Room of the White House.

"I am honoured to sign legislation that builds on the growing ties between the world's largest democracies, India and the United States," Bush said.

More than 200 guests, including top brass of 100 Indian Americans, US business and industry bigwigs who had also nudged and lobbied for the deal were invited for the historic signing ceremony. Vice President Dick Cheney, Rice (the driving force behind the deal) and Secretary of Energy Samuel Bodman were also present.

He said he was impressed by the work Indian had done to get the bill through Congress. "I appreciate the hard work done by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. I appreciate the work of the incredibly efficient US Ambassador to India David Malford," he said.

"Even if India and US are separated by half the globe, we are natural partners," Bush said, adding that India and the US have worked on a host of issues, including education, health, combating terrorism, etc.

"It was not long ago that our relations are strained but we worked to transform our partnership," he said. "And they were doing it though co-operation in energy. Three years ago, Prime Minister Singh (whom I consider, a dear friend) decided to worked on this civilian nuclear deal."

"The bill I signed today approved the 123 Agreement. The bill makes clear that it is consistent with the Atomic Energy Act and other US laws," he said.

He pointed out that the legislation had no changes from the 123 Agreement he sent to Congress and also incorporated fuel assurances to India.