NEW DELHI: Pakistan has proposed to India convening of a meeting of South Asian nations to work out a common declaration not to make nuclear weapons, according to Indian Press reports today [May 18]. The proposal, made by the Pakistan delegation during the third day of talks here … is a follow up of last [UN] General Assembly resolution, which agreed in principle to the concept of a nuclear-free zone in South Asia. The resolution was sponsored by Pakistan.

Press reports said it (the proposal) was aimed at turning India’s assurance that it would use its nuclear capability for peaceful purposes only into a “multilateral guarantee”. … …According to reports, the proposal stems from Pakistani fears that New Delhi’s assurances about peaceful nuclear intentions could be revoked by future Indian Gov­ernments. A solemn declaration made in conjunction with South Asian countries would lend a greater sense of security to non-nuc­lear nations in the region. … The “Times of India” said that the proposed declaration wou­­ld not contain any clause guaranteeing the right of inspection to other countries. The talks … will be resumed tomorrow… .

Published in Dawn, May 19th, 2025