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Nuclear weapons cornerstone of deterrence strategy: PM

* Gilani briefed on qualitative updates in country’s nuclear programme
* Praises progress made in development strategy, consolidation of force goals

By Zulfiqar Ghuman

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan will maintain nuclear deterrence at all costs and not make any compromise on national security, said Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani on Friday.

“Nuclear weapons are the cornerstone of Pakistan’s deterrence strategy, and enjoy complete national consensus and support. We are determined to retain nuclear deterrence at all costs, and no compromise will be made on our core security interest,” said the prime minister – referring to questions being raised over the safety of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal.

Various US officials and legislators have questioned the safety of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons, but Pakistan maintains that there is no danger of its weapons falling into the hands of the Taliban.

Gilani made the comments while presiding over a meeting of the Strategic Planning Division (SPD) at Prime Minister’s House, where he was briefed on qualitative upgrades in the country’s nuclear programme.

The prime minister praised the progress made in development strategy and consolidation of force goals. He said his government would fully support the country’s strategic programme, “which is a vital component of Pakistan’s national security”.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance Shaukat Tareen, Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Chairman (CJCSC) General Tariq Majeed, SPD Director General Lt Gen (r) Khalid Ahmed Kidwai and other senior government officials attended the meeting.

Separately, CJCSC General Tariq held a separate meeting with Prime Minister Gilani along with Lt Gen (r) Kidwai, to discuss the ongoing military operation in Swat and other areas of Malakand and the overall security situation of the country.

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