Pak to accelerate nuclear-programme

Islamabad, Aug 19: Close on the heels of the finalisation of the Indo-US civilian nuclear cooperation deal, Pakistan has decided to accelerate the development of its nuclear programme.

Sources said that President Pervez Musharraf and the concerned government authorities have already issued directions to the country's nuclear scientists and engineers in this regard.

The Daily Times quoted sources as saying that a meeting of the National Command and Control Authority discussed the disturbance of strategic balance in the region after the Indo-US nuclear deal, and decided that Pakistan would continue developing its nuclear and missile programme.

Work on the Khushab reactor would be expedited and five new nuclear reactors would be installed, sources said, adding that the government has rejected any US pressure on its nuclear programme.

They said the government would take all necessary steps to ensure Pakistan's defence and sovereignty, and maintain the strategic balance in the region.

The report said that Islamabad would acquire assistance from countries to meet its increasing energy needs.

Earlier this month, Pakistan Foreign Minister Khurshid Mehmood Kasuri had categorically said that Islamabad would continue developing its nuclear programme, while maintaining strategic balance in the region.

"Let me assure the House that we'll continue developing our nuclear programme, and will not allow shift in the balance of power in South Asia," Kasuri said in his speech on the country's foreign policy.

ANI>