India Concerned Over Safety Of Pakistani Nuclear Weapons, Proliferation

External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday termed the proliferation of weapons of mass destructions (WMDs) as the world's most critical challenge, and expressed concern over the possibility of it falling into the hands of terrorists.

Speaking at a function here today, Mukherjee said, "Proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the possibility of their falling into the hands of terrorists must rank among the most critical challenges facing the world today."

He said that present measures to stop proliferation of such weapons are not sufficient, and called for adoption of a new approach that would also prioritise disarmament.

"The issue cannot be addressed merely by focusing on supply-side technology controls. The so-called AQ Khan network made a mockery of these controls," he said, adding, "India has always pursued the objective of global disarmament, based on the principles of universality, non-discrimination and effective compliance."

Mukherjee's statement comes in the wake of the current unrest in Pakistan, that has led to growing fears in the global community that Pakistan's nuclear arsenal could fall into the hands of al Qaeda supportive militants there. Pakistan has rejected such fears, and has said that it could defend its nuclear arsenal.