When the new history of Indo-US relations is written, Ashley J. Tellis, an Indian American strategist, will find a very special place in the riveting narrative of how the nuclear deal was conceived, birthed, nurtured, protected and finally delivered against heavy bureaucratic and political odds. As senior advisor to the US State Department, Tellis shepherded the deal in Washington, liaised with the Indian government at the highest levels and, most importantly, kept the faith. He spoke to Seema Sirohi.
To what do you attribute the constant tension in getting the deal through?
The bill to approve the deal says that the Hyde Act would be supreme.
But the Hyde Act is a big problem for India.
The bill says that if the US terminates supplies, it should also block others from supplying India....
Will President Bush take care of India's concerns when he signs the bill into law?
Will Bush's commitment in his statement bind future presidents?
The bill requires Congress approval for future reprocessing agreement?
The tough language has created disquiet in Delhi.
Would there be trouble if India were not to follow the US line on Iran?
Why did the US decide to do this deal?
Was it partly driven by the rise of China?
Did you ever feel the deal may not survive?
What was foreign minister Pranab Mukherjee's role?
Aren't you forgetting a very important lady?
If the Democrats come to power, what are the implications for the deal?
You are an advisor to Senator John McCain's campaign. Describe him.
