PAKISTAN has once again received applaud from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for its excellent nuclear security and safety record which is at par with any other nuclear powers of the globe. IAEA’s Nuclear Security Division Head Abdul Aziz Raja Adnan, during his visit to Karachi Nuclear Power Plant, stated that the measures adopted by Pakistan were consistent with the IAEA’s recommendations. In a statement, Foreign Office spokesperson Dr. Muhammad Faisal also said that Pakistan has been actively participating and contributing in IAEA’s efforts to promote nuclear security.
There has never been any real threat to Pakistan’s nuclear installations or assets because of multi-layers of security and safety measures as well as adoption of latest technologies for the purpose but some vested interests have been engaged in consistent propaganda campaign to create misgivings in this regard. Their objective is nothing but to malign Pakistan and depict it as an irresponsible nuclear power as its nuclear capability is an eye-sore to some powers. This is despite the fact that Pakistan has categorically stated that its nuclear programme is aimed at maintaining deterrence in the face of existential threat because of precarious regional situation and aggressive designs of our perpetual enemy. The kite-flying that Pakistan’s nuclear warheads could fall in the hands of terrorists is laughable as even countries like the United States with latest technologies and know-how are unable to pinpoint the exact location of the country’s nuclear arsenal. It is to be noted that throughout the history of the country’s nuclear power programme, there has not been a single incident of theft of nuclear material or nuclear security lapse, let alone nuclear terrorism. As a precautionary measure, Pakistan keeps its nuclear weapons and delivery systems geographically separate for both increasing safety and security and reducing the chances of nuclear accidents. Pakistan has worth emulating three-pronged approach for the nuclear security mechanisms, that is, at legislative and regulatory levels; at the institutional and organizational level; and, through effectively administering nuclear security systems and measures. Pakistan has invested a lot in perfecting the command and control system and screening and training of relevant employees. It is also a matter of concern that despite having safety and security system of international standard, Pakistan continues to face discrimination as far as nuclear export control regime is concerned and unlike India, legitimate nuclear cooperation is denied to Pakistan. This nuclear apartheid must end.
