Islamabad (NYTODAY): Pakistan has firmly dismissed recent remarks made by the US Director of National Intelligence concerning its missile programme, calling them inaccurate and misleading.
In an official response, a spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Office stated that the country’s strategic capabilities are strictly defensive and are designed solely to safeguard national sovereignty. The spokesperson emphasised that Pakistan’s missile programme plays a vital role in maintaining regional peace and stability, rather than promoting any aggressive agenda.
The Foreign Office further clarified that Pakistan has no expansionist intentions and that its missile development remains well within limited parameters. It highlighted that the programme does not approach intercontinental ranges and is guided by the principle of maintaining a “credible minimum deterrence.”
According to officials, this doctrine ensures that Pakistan retains only the necessary defensive capability required to deter potential threats, without engaging in an arms race.
The statement also pointed to regional security concerns, particularly referencing India’s advanced missile systems, which reportedly have ranges exceeding 12,000 kilometres. The spokesperson suggested that such developments pose a greater challenge to regional stability.
Reaffirming its diplomatic stance, Pakistan called for relations with the United States to be based on mutual respect, non-discrimination, and factual understanding. The Foreign Office stressed that a balanced and responsible approach from all parties is essential to ensure long-term peace, security, and stability in South Asia.