In an address to the United Nations on Saturday, a senior Pakistani diplomat emphasized his country's stance on avoiding a detrimental arms race in South Asia. Pakistan is committed to maintaining a minimum credible deterrence in the region, particularly in light of India's acquisition of both conventional and non-conventional weaponry.
This diplomat, Ambassador Khalil Hashmi, spoke at the General Assembly's First Committee, which is responsible for addressing disarmament and international security issues.
Ambassador Hashmi voiced his criticism toward major world powers for their failure to adhere to their nuclear disarmament obligations. He painted a concerning picture of the global security landscape, highlighting the widespread disregard for the UN charter. He also alluded to negative security developments in South Asia, implicitly referencing India's significant weapon acquisitions.
Hashmi further noted that these developments had empowered a neighboring state to Pakistan, suggesting that it was attempting to assert dominance not only in South Asia but also in the Indian Ocean region and beyond.
Pakistan, he stressed, could not remain indifferent to these evolving security dynamics and the clear and present threats they posed to its security.
Pakistan's commitment to a strategy of "minimum credible deterrence" was underscored by Ambassador Hashmi. This approach involves maintaining the smallest possible arsenal of weapons that remains sufficiently intimidating to deter potential aggressors. He reiterated Pakistan's dedication to the overarching goal of fostering a peaceful and stable South Asia, even in the face of ongoing provocations and threats.