Pak says will maintain credible nuclear deterrence

Pakistan today reiterated its position on maintaining a credible nuclear deterrence in talks with the US, with Islamabad seeking access to civil nuclear technologies to address its energy needs.
During the seventh round of US-Pak Security, Strategic Stability, and Nonproliferation Working Group held here, Pakistan firmly stood its ground on not signing the Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT), a joint statement said.
Pakistan underlined its preference for a broader Fissile Material Treaty (FMT) that addresses the asymmetries in existing stocks and highlighted that Islamabad's position on FMT will be determined by its national security interests and the objectives of strategic stability in South Asia, a media note said after the talks.

The Pakistani delegation was led by its Foreign Secretary, Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry while the US was led by Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, Rose Gottemoeller.
The delegations exchanged views on issues of mutual importance, including international efforts to enhance nuclear security, peaceful applications of nuclear energy, nonproliferation, export controls, regional stability and security, the joint statement said.
According to the statement, the two countries reaffirmed the high importance they attach to preventing proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs) and their means of delivery to states as well as non-state actors.

The US and Pakistan resolved to work together to achieve the objectives of the UN Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 1540, and noted that both have consistently supported and implemented relevant UNSC resolutions.

"Pakistan reiterated its commitment to Credible Minimum Deterrence and to pursue measures in the region aimed at building confidence and lessening the risk of armed conflict," the statement said.
"The United States and Pakistan emphasised the importance of meaningful dialogue and progress in this area and expressed the hope for lasting peace in South Asia and the resolution of outstanding territorial and other disputes through peaceful means," it added.
Expressing full confidence in Pakistan's indigenous efforts to strengthen nuclear security, the US welcomed the country's efforts to strengthen export controls and border security including through ongoing efforts for installation of radiation portal monitors at border crossings, as well as Islamabad's hosting of IAEA training activities at its Nuclear Security Centre of Excellence.