By IRNA,
Islamabad : Pakistan says there is no proposal under consideration to sign the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT).
Pakistan conducted nuclear tests in 1998 in a tit-for-tat reaction of Indian tests.
Islamabad has been under pressure to sign the CTBT since it has carried out nuclear tests.
The CTBT bans all nuclear explosions in all environments, for military or civilian purposes. It was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in September 1996 but it has not yet entered into force.
“When time comes, Pakistan’s decision vis-a-vis CTBT will be based on its national security requirements of maintaining credible nuclear deterrence,” Foreign Office spokesman Abdul Basit said at weekly press briefing.
US DRONE STRIKES
The spokesman acknowledged that Pakistan has differences with the US over drone attacks and the issue is raised at all levels.
He hoped that the US would understand that these attacks do not serve any useful purpose and are instead counter-productive.
He said Pakistan also has some concerns with regard to the US’ troop surge in Afghanistan and its implications for Pakistan and is in discussion with Washington on the issue.
He added that Pakistan wants the coalition forces to leave Afghanistan only when that country is in a position to look after itself effectively.
He pointed out that while announcing new Afghan policy, President Obama also articulated new paradigm for the Pakistan-US relations anchored in mutual respect, mutual interest and mutual benefit.
“This provides a positive framework to further strengthen bilateral relationship and lay strong foundations for strategic partnership”.
He said the two countries have agreed to a strategic dialogue at the ministerial level and first such dialogue will take place early next year.