Defence & Diplomacy: Pak US Strategic Dialog

Описание: Pakistan and the US are on the same page when it comes to countering terrorism and extremism. The Americans realise that Pakistan has made great sacrifices as they push to eliminate terrorism in the country; and Pakistan appreciates the American support in this ongoing fight.

But the two are on different planets when it comes to Pakistan’s nuclear weapons programme. Media speculations hold that the Americans want Pakistan to reduce their nuclear arsenal and show restraint in expanding their nuclear weapons programme. Reportedly, the Pakistanis have ruled this out citing India as a top security concern.

The only reason Pakistan has nuclear weapons is because of the security threat posed by India’s nuclear arsenal. No matter how many times Pakistani officials repeat themselves, their American counterparts perhaps find comfort in cozying up to India than publically acknowledging Islamabad’s principled position. India poses a legitimate security concern and if it continues to have nuclear weapons, so will Pakistan. For all their brilliance, the Americans don’t seem to understand.

Why is it easy for the US to live with a nuclear India and not a nuclear Pakistan? The greater economic incentives India offers the US is blinding them to Pakistan’s genuine security concerns.
Participant:
Ambassador Masood Khan
Host: S. M. Hali