India says circumstances are not right for signing the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, but that it is willing to work with like-minded countries to prevent exports of nuclear materials.

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh told a news conference in New Delhi Thursday also attended by visiting German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder, India is a responsible nuclear power and is acting in due restraint. But he said New Delhi will not accede to a treaty that allows its neighbors to export nuclear materials.

India: Circumstances Not Right for Signing Non-Proliferation Treaty - 2004-10-07

Earlier in the day, Mr. Singh and Mr. Schroeder discussed a wide range of issues. They pledged to increase bilateral trade and work together to remove barriers to German investment in India.

India: Circumstances Not Right for Signing Non-Proliferation Treaty - 2004-10-07

They also promised to continue to endorse each others' bids for permanent seats on the U.N. Security Council.

India: Circumstances Not Right for Signing Non-Proliferation Treaty - 2004-10-07