Belgium asks Pak to open nuclear facilities to IAEA

Islamabad, Nov 2: Belgium has asked Pakistan to open its atomic plants and installations for inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency if it wants nuclear energy cooperation for civilian purposes from that country.

Belgian Foreign Minister Karel De Gucht, who is on a two-day visit to Pakistan, met Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz and his counterpart Khurshid Kasuri.

The leaders discussed various bilateral and global issues including terrorism, Afghanistan, nuclear proliferation and trade relations.

'The Nation' quoted Mr Gucht as saying Pakistan wanted the transfer of nuclear energy. But for that, its programme must be under full inspection of the IAEA, he added.

''Pakistan must recognise its position and increase cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog,'' Mr Gucht added.

He said Pakistan should also bring into inspections its uranium enrichment and other nuclear-related activities.

When asked that India has so far not opened all its nuclear installations to the IAEA, the Belgian Foreign Minister said he did not want to make a comparison between the two countries..

''The Indo-US nuclear deal and separation of civilian and military facilitations by India was a first step and eventually it would also have to open up its installations,'' he added.

On the Kashmir, Mr Gucht said his country fully supported the efforts taken by India and Pakistan to resolve the imbroglio.

He said solution to the issue was vital for peace and stability in the region.

UNI

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