WASHINGTON: A top US General is reported to have discussed security of Pakistan’s nuclear program with Senate Arms Services Committee in the US.
During a testimony before the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, the Commander of U.S. Central Command, General Micheal Kurilla was asked whether #Pakistan’s nuclear programme was secure against the backdrop of ongoing political instability and economic crisis. pic.twitter.com/KdvApfpVnG
— The STRATCOM Bureau (@OSPSF) March 19, 2023
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According to a media report, Commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM) General Michael E. Kurilla has expressed confidence in the command and control structure of Pakistan’s nuclear programme amid fears of political instability and economic meltdown.
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The statement by the US General surfaced within days after Finance Minister Ishaq Dar spoke in Senate on Thursday, claiming that Pakistan was under pressure to roll back its long-range missile programme.
Also read: US to continue working with Pakistan against TTP
Finance Minister Ishaq Dar on Thursday in Senate said that no one had the right to dictate Pakistan on its nuclear or missile programme. His statement triggered a debate about whether there was any pressure on Pakistan to compromise on its strategic assets in return for the International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout.
According to the report, Gen Kurilla said “I am confident in their (Pak) nuclear security procedures.”
Also read: Gen Kurilla visits Pakistan to reaffirm security ties: US Embassy
His comments came during a testimony before the Senate Arms Services Committee in the US where it was asked if Pakistan’s nuclear programme was secure against the backdrop of ongoing political instability and economic crisis.
The senator spoke about the political issues in Pakistan and sought to know the assessment of the CENTCOM chief.
Speaking on this occasion, General Kurilla said “I deal with the military relationship there and I have a great relationship with the Chief of the Army Staff, General Munir.”
“I think the concerns right now in Pakistan are their budget, their financial situation, the current political situation and the counter-terrorism situation,” he maintained. He also referred to the resurgence of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
