"This visionary agreement will truly transform Indo-US relations and is a positive step in the right direction for our two nations. I respectfully request your support," Joe Wilson, a Republican, said in a letter to Congressmen.

Recalling the economic rationale of the civilian nuclear deal as advanced by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice [Images] at her testimony in Congress on Wednesday, he said "...as many as 3,000 to 5,000 new direct jobs in the United States and about 10,000 to 15,000 indirect jobs, could be created as a direct result of this agreement.

Indo-US Nuclear Tango

"The long-term benefits are also enormous. India currently experiences numerous power shortages, which hinders its economic growth. By expanding civilian nuclear power, this agreement will enable the people of India to compete in the global economy.

India's middle class consists of 300 million people, and as they become more prosperous, they will increasingly rely upon US goods and services."

India's infrastructure, Wilson said, "...needs more than $ 1 trillion of investment, which will provide new opportunities for the US.

In 2005, US merchandise exports to India increased by 30 per cent over the previous year. Over the past four years, US exports to India nearly doubled, and India is now our fastest growing export market."

"India's economy is growing at seven per cent, and future projections of economic growth are bright. We currently maintain a trade surplus with India in the services sector, and now is the time to lay a foundation with India to ensure free and fair economic trade.