Islamabad: Pakistan has firmly rejected claims by an official from the United States regarding a perceived threat posed by Pakistan’s missile capabilities. The Foreign Office spokesperson underscored the defensive nature of the country’s strategic arsenal, which is intended to protect national sovereignty and contribute to regional peace and stability in South Asia.

According to Radio Pakistan, Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi addressed these concerns by highlighting that Pakistan’s missile program is firmly based on the principle of credible minimum deterrence, specifically concerning India. Andrabi pointed out that Pakistan’s missiles do not reach intercontinental range, unlike India’s missile development, which has seen capabilities exceeding 12,000 kilometers, raising alarms about regional and broader security implications.

The spokesperson further expressed Pakistan’s commitment to a constructive dialogue with the United States, emphasizing a relationship founded on mutual respect and factual accuracy. Andrabi called for a more balanced approach from the U.S. that aligns with South Asia’s strategic needs and enhances peace and security in the area.