ISLAMABAD, Feb 20: A 10-member delegation of US officials dealing with non-proliferation, missile defence, and arms control held talks with Pakistani officials at the foreign office on Friday.

The US delegation, led by Assistant Secretary of State for Arms Control Stephen Rademaker, held discussions with Additional Secretary Tariq Osman Hyder on matters relating to the United Nations. Later, Mr Rademaker met Foreign Secretary Riaz Khokhar.

Sources said issues pertaining to nuclear non-proliferation, regional nuclear CBMs and missile defence regime came under discussion. Findings of the International Atomic Energy Agency were also discussed, a source said.

In reply to a question, foreign ministry officials denied that any plan for conducting an operation by US forces in North-Western areas or the non-proliferation issue were discussed.

"The Assistant Secretary conveyed US views that in certain circumstances, missile defence could contribute to regional stability and the US was ready to further discuss the issue with Pakistan," the foreign office said, adding "both sides agreed to continue discussions on these issues."

The sources said the US had already offered technical assistance to Pakistan for 'securing' its nuclear arsenal. Pakistan maintains that its nuclear arsenal is in safe hands and it will not be given under foreign control.

"The two sides discussed recent global developments in arms control," the foreign office said. The Assistant Secretary noted that these discussions were part of a multi-faceted bilateral relationship and further demonstrated US commitment to a strong, cooperative and long-term relationship with Pakistan, according to a foreign office press release.

The foreign office described the discussions as part of a broad, ongoing dialogue on 'strategic and security issues, including regional security'. During the meeting with Mr Khokhar, Mr Rademaker briefed him on US policies and perspectives on international security. Mr Khokhar informed Mr Rademaker about recent talks with the Indian foreign secretary.