Thaindian News

Islamabad, March 22 (IANS) Pakistan wants to follow a policy of peaceful co-existence in the Asian region and does not wish to enter into a nuclear arms race, the country’s air force chief has said.

But at the same time, Pakistan cannot remain oblivious to the developments in South Asia, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) chief, Air Chief Marshal Rao Qamar Suleman, was quoted as saying by The Daily Times.

Suleman made the statement at an international conference on “Fissile Material Treaty (FMT): Possibility and Prospects” held in the Pakistan capital.

“Pakistan was reluctant to enter into the nuclear business. It decided to embark on a nuclear programme not as a matter of choice but out of compulsion,” he said.

As a nuclear state, Pakistan was fully aware of its responsibilities and has established effective command and control structures, he said.

“These are fully compatible with international practices and global regimes and are acknowledged internationally,” the air force chief said.

Nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament objectives in South Asia were linked with regional security dynamics and the resolution of outstanding disputes, he said.

“Pakistan is a peace loving country and wants to live in the region with honour and dignity… but will not compromise on its national security,” he added.