Senate passes controversial India nuclear deal

WASHINGTON (CNN) - The Senate approved a controversial nuclear deal with India Wednesday, clearing the way for the U.S. to export nuclear know-how to New Delhi after a ban lasting decades.

Sen. Chris Dodd, a Connecticut Democrat, said Wednesday the deal would not only "set the stage for a stronger U.S.-India relationship," but would promote stability in India's troubled neighborhood.

India and Pakistan have fought several wars since they became independent in 1947, and both countries have tested nuclear weapons.