Dawn
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03:27 Sep 20, 2025
• Khawaja Asif first suggests nuclear capabilities may be extended to KSA; later retracts, says nuclear weapons ‘not on the radar’ • FO adopts cautious approach; cites ‘evolving doctrine’ but offers no specifics • Dar hints other states also interested in defence deals ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s conflicting statements about Pakistan’s new defence agreement with Saudi Arabia have intensified speculation about the pact’s nuclear dimension. During an appearance on a TV talk show on Thursday night, Mr Asif had suggested that Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities could be made available to Riyadh under the new framework. “What we have, and the capabilities we possess, will be made available to (Saudi Arabia) according to this agreement,” he said, stressing that Pakistan has always acted as a responsible nuclear state. The remarks were interpreted as the first explicit signal that Pakistan might extend its nuclear deterrence to the kingdom, particularly as Mr Asif was present at the signing ceremony in Ri...