Pakistan can contribute to global peace by adopting no-first-use nuclear policy: India

India on Friday told the UN General Assembly’s First Committee that Pakistan, its nuclear-armed neighbour, could contribute to global peace by adopting a no-first-use nuclear doctrine.

“India has a no-first-use doctrine. We will not use nuclear weapons first. If there is any nuclear escalation, it will be by Pakistan. Pakistan can make an enormous contribution to international peace and security by adopting a no-first-use policy,” Indian diplomat Dr Anupam Ray said while responding to Pakistan’s remarks on New Delhi at the UNGA’s first committee.

He noted that bilateral nuclear understandings and confidence-building measures between the two countries remain in place. Dr Ray also highlighted the threat of state-sponsored terrorism, saying that India faces a nuclear-armed neighbour “which is the epicentre of global terrorism” and will respond firmly to such threats, even under a nuclear overhang.

He further drew attention to Pakistan’s financial instability, noting that the country has sought bailouts from the International Monetary Fund nearly many a time, often “using your money, our money to export terrorism and instability". Dr Ray urged the committee to consider the implications for international peace and security of a nation in such a precarious financial state possessing nuclear weapons.

Recalling recent military developments, he said, “The Pakistani military had directly contacted India on May 10 seeking a ceasefire after threatening further attacks. India will not waste the time of this committee to respond to any further attempts by Pakistan to mislead it.”

India’s intervention underscored its position on nuclear responsibility and cross-border terrorism, urging Pakistan to take concrete steps towards global stability.