Comment on Media Reports Regarding Pakistan’s Nuclear Programme
While responding to a question regarding a recently released report about Pakistan’s nuclear programme, the Spokesperson stated: As a nuclear state, Pakistan’s policy is characterized by the utmost restraint and responsibility. We strictly abide by the concept of credible minimum deterrence and our nuclear programme is only aimed at maintaining peace and stability in South Asia. Pakistan has no desire to engage in nuclear arms race.
We reject the report’s assertion that Pakistan has the fastest growing nuclear arsenal as utterly baseless. Such reports have the effect of diverting attention from the exponential increase in India’s fissile material stockpiles as a result of nuclear deals with a growing number of NSG countries and its destabilizing consequences for the region.
Pakistan has put forward several initiatives to promote conventional and strategic stability in South Asia, including the proposed Strategic Restraint Regime, but regrettably India has failed to respond positively.
Pakistan remains committed to the global objectives of disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation.
August 28, 2015
Islamabad