Pakistan is fully capable of protecting its nuclear technology from falling into the hands of terrorists and would seek co-operation of international community for its peaceful use. In his weekly press briefing, foreign office spokesman Abdul Basit said on Thursday that the growing co-operation in nuclear energy between Pakistan and the United States will not harm the interests of any country.
Basit said that Pakistan is developing its relations with the US in various fields, therefore, no country should raise objections over the US-Pakistan co-operation in nuclear energy. The spokesman added that Pakistan is a responsible country and believes in peace and stability and would play its due role in turning the world into a peaceful place. To a question, he said that Pakistan has urged the US to expedite ongoing development of Reconstruction Opportunity Zones (ROZs) aimed at bringing tribal areas at par with other parts of the country.
To a question, the spokesman said that those Pakistani citizens who are allegedly involved in the Mumbai incident are under trial as per the law of the land, adding that negotiations are underway to improve the bilateral relations between Pakistan and India. He further said that Pakistan has some reservations over the roadmap for the regional summit in Bhuttan, however, he said that Pakistan believes in meaningful and result-oriented talks.
Referring to the recent nuclear security summit in Washington, he said that Prime Minister Gilani actively participated in the summit, adding that the US has assured assistance in overcoming the energy crisis. Basit further said that Prime Minister Gilani briefed President Barrack Obama about the ongoing military operation in the tribal areas. He added that Prime Minister urged the Obama administration to play effective role in the reconstruction of the tribal areas.
The spokesman dispelled the impression that Pakistan is following the US dictation or the ongoing military operation is carried out to secure the US interests in the region, saying that Pakistan has its own strategic plan against terrorism and extremism and acts accordingly. To a question, the spokesman said that IMF team is presently in Pakistan and we are expecting positive outcome of the meeting between Pakistan and IMF team.