Days after the NSG (Nuclear Suppliers Group) setback in Seoul, India today became the 35th member of a global anti-proliferation bloc, the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), which not only ensures transfer of high-end missile technology to the country but also gives it a license to export arms.

“India joined the MTCR,” the Ministry of External Affairs said.

It said that the bloc’s point of contact in Paris had “conveyed the decision regarding India’s accession to the regime through the embassy of France in New Delhi as well as the embassies of The Netherlands and Luxembourg”.

The MTCR membership is seen as a step forward in India’s recognition as a legitimate nuclear power after New Delhi conducted its atomic tests in 1998.