Pakistan says its defence doctrine quarantees peace in the region

Islamabad, Jun 3 (UNI) Pakistan today said its defence doctrine, based on minimum credible deterrence, was in the interest of maintaining peace in the region.

''Pakistan is also not in an arms race with anyone and its defence policy is aimed at safeguarding the country's integrity and sovereignty,'' Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said while talking to the visiting Eritrean Defence Minister, General Sebhat Ephrem here.

He said his country wanted to promote peace in the region, which he stressed was the most important ingredient for progress. ''It is the best gift which we can bestow upon our coming generations,'' he added.

The Prime Minister said Pakistan wants resolution of all outstanding issues ''with India, including the ''core issue of Kashmir'' and is committed to the process of dialogue with New Delh.

He added that Pakistan is in favour of a solution of the Kashmir issue, in line with the wishes and aspirations of the people there.

Mr Aziz also mentioned Islamabad assisting Afghanistan in every way to bring peace and prosperity there.

He said a strong, peaceful, stable, vibrant and growing Afghanistan is important for Pakistan, the region and the world.

Mr Aziz's remarks on its neighbour came just two days ahead of the scheduled meeting of the tripartite commission comprising senior military officials of Afghanistan, Pakistan and the United States.

The commission is to meet in Rawalpindi on June 5 to coordinate the ongoing anti-terror efforts. NATO and the International Security and Assistance Force will attend the meeting as full members for the first time.

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