ISLAMABAD, April 29: Pakistan on Monday expressed “serious concern” at Moscow’s cooperation with New Delhi in the development of Indian missile, Brahmos.

Foreign office spokesman Aziz Ahmad Khan told his weekly news briefing that the development of missile was a clear violation of Russia’s international obligations under the Missile Technology Control Regime and added that it had aggravated regional arms balance as well as encouraged New Delhi in its hegemonic designs.

The spokesman stated that the flight of missile in Orissa on Sunday had added to production of a new weapon system in the region.

He reiterated Pakistan’s committed policy of restraint and responsibility and opposition to the arms race in the region.

“However, we will take all necessary steps to ensure strong defence capability to deter any aggressive designs against the sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the spokesman said and added that “we have always impressed upon major powers to refrain from policies and measures that would destabilize the region”.—H.A

The new missile was expected to be deployed by the Indian army in 2004, adds APP.

The missile was being developed in a joint venture between India’s defence research and development organization and Russia’s Mashinostroyenia.

As far as Pakistan is concerned, the spokesman said, it had never violated the provisions or done anything which was against the provisions of the MTCR.