Pakistan tells US issue of nuclear scientist closed
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
Islamabad, Feb. 13, IRNA -- Pakistan has told the United States that the issue of nuclear scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan is a closed chapter and it is counter productive to speculate on the court verdict to release him.
Islamabad High Court freed Abdul Qadeer Khan this week after five years of house arrest, a decision criticized by the US and European nations.
The Foreign Ministry spokesman Abdul Basit told weekly press briefing the issue of A.Q. Khan's release came under discussion during talks with US Special Representative Richard Holbrooke.
"Pakistan also reiterated its commitment to non-proliferation, adding that necessary legislative and administrative measures have been taken to ensure effective export control and prevent possibility of proliferation".
He said the United States understands Pakistan's position and accepts it.
To another question he said Khan has no access to any strategic facility, enjoys no official status and he has nothing to do with the country's nuclear program any more.
The spokesman told a questioner that Pakistan was making efforts for release of Aafia Siddiqui and hoped these would yield positive results.
The spokesman condemned recent kidnapping of UNHCR official from Quetta and said efforts are on for his safe release.
To a question he said relevant Pakistani authorities have yet to confirm the killing of the Polish engineer.
To a question the spokesman said terms of reference of the UN Inquiry Commission into the assassination of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto were finalized in consultation with Pakistan.
He said Pakistan would pay the seed money while other members of the UN would make contributions to defray cost of the inquiry.
He said the amount of the seed money is being worked out.
Replying to a question the spokesman said Pakistan has formally conveyed to India its response to the information provided by New Delhi on Mumbai attack.
He said that Pakistan's response to the Indian dossier on Mumbai attacks demonstrates our sincerity and commitment to fight against terrorism.
He said this is reflective of Pakistan's sincerity to bring perpetrators of Mumbai attacks to justice.
He Pakistan's findings clearly show that the country is serious and sincere in its investigations and hoped that India would reciprocate with the same spirit of cooperation.
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