Induction of nuclear-submarine by India is detrimental to regional peace: Pak FO

Islamabad, July 28 (ANI): A day after the Pakistan Navy expressed concern over India announcing the launch of its first indigenously built nuclear submarine - the INS Arihant saying it could trigger off an arms race in South Asia, the Pakistan Foreign Office has said that such a step would destabilise the region and would have a detrimental effect on regional peace.

"Continued induction of new lethal weapon systems by India is detrimental to regional peace and stability," Foreign Office spokesman Abdul Basit said.

Basit said Pakistan would take all measures to ensure strategic balance in the region.

"Without entering into an arms race with India, Pakistan will take all appropriate steps to safeguard its security and maintain strategic balance in South Asia," The Dawn quoted Basit, as saying.

India, on Sunday, launched its first indigenously made nuclear powered submarine 'INS-Arihant' (Destroyer of the enemy).

India joined an exclusive club of US, Russia, China, France and the UK with the launch.

The 6000-tonne submarine will undergo sea trials for two years before being commissioned for full service.

The 'INS Arihant' is armed with nuclear-tip ballistic missiles. (ANI)