How can negotiators come to a successful agreement? In nuclear non-proliferation policies this question is complex as it refers to International Law, domestic and international norms, as well as agency and alliance formation. This paper takes a closer look at the making of the 123-Agreement from 2005 to 2008, and its delivery of important insights into the dynamics and dependencies of non-proliferation policies. While disregarding existing norms in international negotiation practices, the negotiation cannot only be seen in the context of internal factors. As it becomes clear when historically and geographically embedding the U.S. - India Civil Nuclear Agreement and its history, external factors helped. Through the backdoor, India became a de-facto recognized Nuclear Weapon State and got access to important civil nuclear technology. On the other hand, without making official concessions, the United States won an important ally and partner in the region.
