Japan asks Pakistan to sign NPT

Pakistan should ensure proper implementation of a non-proliferation regime, and sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), said Japanese Defence Minister Yuriko Koike.

Islamabad, Aug 23 : Pakistan should ensure proper implementation of a non-proliferation regime, and sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), said Japanese Defence Minister Yuriko Koike.

"Pakistan should sign the NPT and Japan will continue to talk with Pakistani authorities in this regard," Koike told reporters here.

She said Japan was against nuclear proliferation and wanted all countries to join the NPT.

"We would continue discussions with Pakistan to join the NPT," Koike said, adding that Japan was concerned about the North Korean atomic weapon programme.

She said Japan would continue assisting Pakistan for the consolidation of democracy and offered cooperation to improve its social sector.

Commenting on Pakistan's role in the war on terror, Koike said that Islamabad could benefit from Japanese facilities to combat terrorism.

"Our facilities in the Arabian Sea are not only for the US, but all countries fighting the war on terror can use these facilities," the Daily Times quoted her, as saying.

About her meetings with the Pakistani leadership, Koike said the war on terror, regional and international issues were discussed.

She said Japan supported Musharraf's enlightened moderation, and added that the international community should recognise Pakistan's contribution in the war against terrorism.

ANI