Nuclear programme central to Pakistan's defence: Army chief

Army Chief Gen Raheel Sharif today said Pakistan's nuclear programme is central to the country's defence.

Sharif, who took over late last year, visited the Strategic Plans Division where he was given a detailed briefing by its chief, Lt Gen (retired) Khalid Ahmed Kidwai, on the strategic programme.

He said Pakistan's nuclear programme occupies a central place for the defence of the country, a military statement said.

"He expressed his satisfaction over the robust nuclear command and control structure and all the security controls related to strategic assets of the country," it added.