Pakistan sustained its nuclear modernisation efforts last year despite its economic turmoil as its contentious relationship with India continues to drive its defence policy, the top US intelligence official has told Congress.
The remarks by Lt Gen Jeffrey Kruse, Director of the Defence Intelligence Agency came during a Congressional hearing on China on April 15.
Kruse further stated that despite economic difficulties, Pakistan continued its nuclear modernization program. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Pakistan is estimated to possess 170 nuclear warheads as of January 2023.
During a hearing, Kruse informed lawmakers that Pakistan has reached out to the international community, including the UN Security Council, to assist in resolving the conflict with India over Kashmir. He also mentioned that Pakistan and India have maintained a tense ceasefire along their shared Line of Control since February 2021.
To alleviate its financial woes, cash-strapped Pakistan is relying on financial assistance from allies such as China and Saudi Arabia.
April 15, 2024
Source: Various media sites