China on Monday denied any knowledge of a special NSG plenary meeting to be held by end of the year to consider inclusion of non-NPT members like India into the Nuclear Supplier Group (NSG).

In response to the question of a special plenary meeting, foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei said, "we have never heard about any other follow-up steps."    

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Reports in the Indian media claimed that a plenary meeting in Seoul on June 24 ended after agreeing to hold a special plenary meeting by end of the year to hold informal consultation on India's NSG membership. Indian media reports further claimed that Argentine ambassador Rafael Grossi was appointed as facilitator of the special plenary meeting.

Chinese spokesperson also dismissed the perception that China was solely responsible for blocking India's inclusion into NSG.

"As far as we know, in the NSG plenary meeting held in Seoul, many countries have expressed their views on the accession of non-NPT members into the group. They believe that they should forge a consensus and then make a decision based on consultation and thorough discussion regarding the entry of a specific country," Hong said.

Meanwhile, foreign ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup told reporters in New Delhi that China's tough stance on NSG could adversely impact the Sino-Indian relationship. He added that India will keep reminding Beijing that accommodation of interests and concerns is important to keep the bilateral relationship in good shape.               

Several prominent political parties in India have launched scathing attacks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for failure to secure NSG membership and his failure to convince China, despite diligent efforts.

Tagschina, India, NSG, China and India, Nuclear Supplier Group