May 30, 1998 No. 140

AXWORTHY CONDEMNS NEW ROUND OF PAKISTANI NUCLEAR TESTS

Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy condemned the latest series of nuclear tests announced today by Pakistan.

"The Pakistani Government's decision to carry out another series of nuclear tests is a highly irresponsible act," said Mr. Axworthy.

"It further increases tension in the region, and threatens international security and the nuclear non-proliferation regime."

Mr. Axworthy was deeply disappointed by Pakistan's latest action, carried out despite the immediate condemnation by the international community following its first round of tests on May 28, and the earlier tests by India.

"Now is the time for both Pakistan and India to recognize the imminent danger of their actions, and to renounce their nuclear weapons programs," said Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific) Raymond Chan.

Mr. Axworthy appealed to both countries to sign to the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty, and urged them to renew regional dialogue and work toward a peaceful resolution of differences.

Mr. Axworthy welcomed British Foreign Minister Robin Cook's proposal to convene a meeting of G-8 Foreign Ministers on June 12, 1998 in London, to discuss this issue, and has indicated that he plans to attend.

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