NEW DELHI (PTL): The new U.S Ambassador to India Frank G. Wisner last week said a verifiable ban on production of fissile material for nuclear weapons and a comprehensive nuclear test ban treaty were his first priorities.
Presenting his credentials to Indian President Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma Wisner a career diplomat emphasized the common interest of both governments in combating illegal narcotics trafficking and related law and order problems.
India sought U.S. support to combat “externally sponsored terrorism” which was posing 4 challenges to its society characterized by diverse cultures, religions and languages.
Dr. Sharma said “Externally sponsored terrorism with an extremist thrust is a particular threat to multi-cultural, multi-religious and multi-lingual societies like India.”
“We expect the goodwill and moral support of friendly countries) with pluralistic and democratic societies in this task, and cooperation in international efforts to eliminate terrorism, particularly narco-terrorism.
Noting the growth and change in bilateral economic relations, the Ambassador said the businessmen: of both the countries were setting the agenda by working with each: other as never before, adding daily to the Indo-U.S. partnership.
Wisner was nominated to the top post after Stephen Solarz, a former pro-India Senator, tipped for the post, was not named by the Clinton. Administration. The US embassy did not have an Ambassador for about one and half years.
Article extracted from this publication >> August 12, 1994