The Obama administration is interested in expanding the US-India civilian nuclear power deal in order to collaborate with India to strengthen the global non-proliferation system, according to a senior US diplomat. US Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg emphasized that the 2005 atomic power deal, which allowed New Delhi to import nuclear technology after a 33-year halt, creates a shared responsibility for both countries to reinforce the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty system. Steinberg stated that the United States and India have a duty to enhance the NPT regime to promote safe and cost-effective nuclear power for global energy and environmental needs, while preventing the spread of nuclear weapons. Despite not being a signatory to the NPT, India is urged to consider making commitments to align with international standards, as mentioned by Steinberg at the Brookings Institution in Washington. The Nuclear Suppliers Group recently agreed to end a ban on nuclear trade with India, which was originally imposed due to India's first nuclear test in 1974 and its refusal to join the NPT. Washington faced significant opposition but ultimately succeeded in obtaining the NSG waiver to move forward with the nuclear cooperation pact, an important goal for the United States in terms of strategy, clean energy, environment, and commerce. India, Pakistan, and Israel are the only countries that have not signed the NPT. India's special envoy for nuclear issues and climate change stated that the nuclear deal and NSG waiver have elevated India's standing as a partner in the global nuclear field. According to envoy Shyam Saran, the civil nuclear agreement has opened up new possibilities for engagement on previously sensitive issues. Steinberg emphasized the importance of figuring out how to involve India and Pakistan in the NPT. The details of cooperation between Washington and New Delhi on non-proliferation issues would be discussed in talks after the Obama administration had appointed key officials and after India's general elections in April and May, according to him.