ISLAMABAD / PAKISTAN: A thought-provoking editorial has stressed the need for Pakistan to reaffirm its long-held nuclear doctrine while urging policymakers to consider expanding the recently signed defence pact with Saudi Arabia into a broader regional security framework. The call comes amid growing volatility in the Middle East and South Asia, where shifting alliances and conflicts are reshaping the balance of power.
The editorial pointed out that misleading speculation in some Western quarters has attempted to link the Pakistan-Saudi pact with nuclear cooperation — a notion dismissed as baseless. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s remarks that the agreement “encompasses all military means” created further confusion, although he also reiterated that Pakistan remains a responsible nuclear power. Analysts argue that at a time of heightened global scrutiny, ambiguity over nuclear policy is dangerous and must be addressed firmly.
Pakistan’s nuclear weapons, the piece reminded, serve solely as a deterrent and not as a bargaining tool in international partnerships. Reasserting this policy would send a strong message of strategic responsibility while deflating rumours. The editorial also noted that Pakistan is no longer the vulnerable state it was during the Cold War era. With a capable and experienced military, the country today can lead or participate in stronger regional defence collaborations.
Expanding cooperation with Saudi Arabia and potentially aligning with other Muslim nations could help create a security umbrella against threats to the sovereignty of Arab and Muslim states. Such a bloc, the piece suggests, would act as a stabilizing force in the region. However, the editorial also warned that careful messaging is essential, as any misinterpretation about Pakistan’s nuclear role could fuel further tensions.
By standing firm on its nuclear doctrine and responsibly expanding its defence partnerships, Pakistan, the editorial concluded, has the opportunity to strengthen both its own position and the security of the wider region.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.