ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has strongly dismissed recent remarks by former US National Security Adviser John Bolton and Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, asserting the country’s full confidence in the safety and security of its nuclear assets.
FO Affirms Robust Nuclear Command and Control
Responding to media queries, a Foreign Office spokesperson said Thursday that Pakistan maintains a “comprehensive nuclear security regime” supported by strong command and control structures. The statement was issued following Bolton’s comments during an interview with Indian news agency ANI, in which he echoed Indian concerns about the security of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons.
“Pakistan remains fully confident in the strength of its nuclear safety and security architecture,” the spokesperson stated.
Bolton’s Remarks and India’s Position Criticized
Bolton, speaking about his diplomatic experiences following 9/11, recalled discussions between then US Secretary of State Colin Powell and former President Pervez Musharraf regarding nuclear safeguards. He reiterated concerns about nuclear weapons potentially falling into “the hands of terrorists or irresponsible commanders.”
In parallel, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during a visit to Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), called Pakistan a “rogue and irresponsible nation” and questioned the security of its nuclear arsenal. Singh urged the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to intervene.
Pakistan Labels Comments Politically Motivated
The Foreign Office condemned both sets of remarks as “hypocritical and politically motivated.” Referring to Singh’s affiliation with a “Hindu extremist organisation,” the spokesperson noted that the Indian minister has a record of issuing threats against Pakistan.
“It is ironic that John Bolton’s remarks were prompted by a statement from Rajnath Singh — a leader known for repeatedly issuing threats of aggression against Pakistan,” the FO said. “In reality, the international community should be more concerned about India’s nuclear arsenal being controlled by individuals like Rajnath Singh.”
Concerns Over India’s Nuclear Record
The FO further criticized India’s nuclear safeguards, citing repeated instances of illicit trafficking of radioactive materials and a persistent black market for nuclear components.
“The escalating radicalisation of India’s political landscape, media, and segments of its society raises legitimate nuclear security concerns,” the statement noted. “These concerns are compounded by recurring incidents of theft and trafficking of sensitive nuclear materials.”
Cross-Border Accusations Continue
Separately, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, while in the Netherlands, accused Pakistan of orchestrating cross-border terrorism. He dismissed claims by former US President Donald Trump that Washington had brokered the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan, and again linked Pakistan to terror incidents without presenting evidence.
Pakistan Reiterates Nuclear Safety Commitment
The Foreign Office concluded its statement by reaffirming Pakistan’s dedication to maintaining the highest nuclear safety standards. “Pakistan has consistently demonstrated its commitment to global nuclear non-proliferation and security norms,” it said.
