Belarus, Kazakhstan assure support for Pakistan's NSG bid

Pakistan, which responded to India's membership bid with one of its own, also has the backing of its close ally China

Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs Tariq Fatemi said on Monday that Belarus and Kazakhstan have assured their support to Islamabads bid for membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), a statement from the foreign office said.

Pakistan was expanding upon its relations with different countries, including Russian and central Asian states, it said, adding that the president of Belarus would also visit the country next month.

The special assistant reiterated that Pakistan's application for the NSG is based on technical experience, capability and commitment to nuclear safety and security.

The need for adopting a non-discriminatory and objective approach was also emphasised during the Belgium visit.

Pakistan, which responded to India's membership bid with one of its own, has the backing of its close ally China.

China is leading opposition to a push by the United States and other major powers for India to join the main club of countries controlling access to sensitive nuclear technology.

Other countries opposing Indian membership of the NSG include New Zealand, Ireland, Turkey, South Africa and Austria, diplomats said.

The 48-nation NSG aims to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons by restricting the sale of items that can be used to make those arms.