No compromise on Nuclear programmes; says Gilani

In quite a clear-cut message, Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani said that there would be no compromise on nuclear deterrents, saying the parliamentary review process was an unprecedented development and marks a new landmark in the progress along the path of democracy.

The Prime Minister while addressing a meeting of the Defence Committee of the Cabinet (DCC), reviewed the recommendations made by the Parliamentary Committee of National Security (PCNS) which were recently passed unanimously by the joint-session of the Parliament.

He acknowledged the significance of ties with the US, saying that Pakistan was looking for ties with the US on basis of mutual respect. He observed, “Pak-US relations are all set to take a new course and we would put our sovereignty above all other considerations in its relations with the US”.

The premier asserted that the Parliament had categorically made its point that there would be partnerships with the America but not at the cost of country’s sovereignty.

The ties with the US/NATO/ISAF were put on hold until parliament took a clear position on how to proceed forward under the new terms of engagement, he added.

The premier said the parliamentary review and guidance would not only help strengthen the hands of the government in dealing with the international community but also give public ownership to foreign and security policies.

On basis of the exceptional opportunity offered by the parliament, Pakistan could set right its bilateral relationship with the US on the basis of mutual respect and mutual interest, he commented.

He observed, “The message from parliament – yes to partnership but not at the cost of our sovereignty, carefully calibrates the road map of the engagement. We now need to move beyond review adding that during the course of the concluding debate he assured the House that it will be his government’s endeavor to implement parliament’s recommendations with regard to our foreign and security policies both in letter and spirit”.

All the three heads of armed forces, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Khalid Shamim Waen, Director General Military Operations Major Gen Ashfaq Nadeem and DG ISI Lieutenant Gen Zaheerul Islam were also present.

At the outset‚ the meeting offered prayers for safety of those trapped under avalanche in Giyari. It also prayed for success of the rescue operation.

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Posted by Faisal Farooq on Apr 18 2012. Filed under Latest News, National, Pakistan. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.