Pak not to compromise on strategic deterrence

Islamabad, Aug 24: Pakistan's Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz has said the country's strategic programme was here to stay, and minimum strategic deterrence would never be compromised as it guaranteed the security and sovereignty of the nation.

"We will guard our nuclear and missile programme with all our strength. Our nuclear and missile programme is second to none," he said while addressing officers of the National Engineering and Scientific Commission (NESCOM) as part of his visit to Centres of Excellence in Science and Technology (CESAT) here yesterday.

The prime minister said the NESCOM was full of top class professionals led by very dynamic and professional leaders.

"The visit of this facility has really encouraged me and made me proud and confident about the future of Pakistan in terms of security and self-reliance in the defence of the country," press release issued by NESCOM quoted him as saying.

In his welcome address, NESCOM Chairman Samar Mubarakmand said NESCOM has been transformed into a highly unified organisation as a result of centres of excellence initiative.

These centres provide the right platform for young PhDs returning from studies abroad to contribute in the research and design efforts that are always ongoing at these centres, he said.

UNI