The Foreign Office (FO) on Saturday dismissed US concerns about Pakistan’s missile capabilities as unfounded and illogical. FO Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch described these allegations, made by US Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer, as lacking evidence and historical context. Finer had claimed that Pakistan was developing missiles capable of reaching targets beyond South Asia, including the US.
The FO emphasized that Pakistan and the US have enjoyed a positive relationship since 1954, and such allegations against a major non-NATO ally harm bilateral ties. Pakistan reiterated its commitment to peace and stability in South Asia, stating that its strategic capabilities are solely for defense and maintaining credible minimum deterrence.
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Concerns about Pakistan’s missile program, the FO added, seem to ignore more significant threats from the region and are likely influenced by external factors.
Pakistan underscored its sacrifices for regional stability and its consistent efforts to address US concerns since 2012. It firmly stated that its strategic program is not aimed at any country, including the US, and any assumptions of hostility are baseless. The spokesperson reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to constructive engagement with the US while safeguarding its sovereignty and defense priorities, backed by unanimous national support.
