It would also infuriate India's rival Pakistan, an ally of China's, which has responded to India's membership bid with one of its own. Opponents argue that granting India membership would further undermine efforts to prevent proliferation. Mexico's president said on Wednesday his country now backs India's membership bid. The 48-nation Nuclear Suppliers Group aims to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons by restricting the sale of items that can be used to make those arms. CHINA HARDENS STANDBut China on Thursday maintained its position that the Non-Proliferation Treaty is central to the NSG, diplomats said.

Source: India Today June 10, 2016 03:06 UTC