A senior US diplomat stated that the Obama administration aims to expand on the US-India civilian nuclear power deal to collaborate with India in strengthening the global non-proliferation system. The diplomat emphasized that both countries have a responsibility to enhance the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty system following the 2005 atomic power deal. Despite not being a signatory to the NPT, India is urged to consider making commitments to participate in an international approach. The Nuclear Suppliers Group recently lifted a ban on nuclear trade with India, which was imposed after its first nuclear test in 1974 and its refusal to join the NPT. Washington faced strong opposition but ultimately succeeded in obtaining the NSG waiver to enable the implementation of the nuclear cooperation pact, which is a significant 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 and climate issues expressed that the nuclear deal and NSG waiver have elevated India's status as a partner in the global nuclear field. The envoy noted that the civil nuclear agreement has opened up new avenues for engagement on previously sensitive and contentious issues. Steinberg emphasized the importance of addressing the issue of bringing India and Pakistan into the NPT. The method of cooperation between Washington and New Delhi on non-proliferation issues would be determined through discussions after the Obama administration appointed key officials and after India's general elections in April and May, he stated.