May 28, 1998 No. 136

AXWORTHY CONDEMNS PAKISTAN'S NUCLEAR

WEAPONS TESTS AND ANNOUNCES SANCTIONS

Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy attending NATO meetings in Luxembourg today condemned the nuclear weapons tests carried out by Pakistan and announced the imposition of sanctions against the country.

"Canada condemns this action by Pakistan. These tests, following India's nuclear tests, have grave implications for world security, regional stability and the non-proliferation regime," said Mr. Axworthy. "We continue to urge Pakistan and India to renounce their nuclear weapons programs and to sign both the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty."

Mr. Axworthy announced a series of measures to be taken by Canada in reaction to Pakistan's nuclear tests. These are consistent with those imposed on India following its recent nuclear tests:

Canada's High Commissioner to Pakistan has been recalled as a sign of protest;

Canada is discontinuing non-humanitarian development assistance to Pakistan;

Canada will seek deferment of planned International Financial Institution-funded projects in Pakistan;

Military exports to Pakistan have been banned; and

The planned visit to Canada by Pakistan's Auditor General has been deferred.

"During my meeting earlier today with the Pakistani High Commissioner, I conveyed Canada's deep regret that Pakistan felt compelled to proceed with nuclear testing. I expressed condemnation for an action that heightens the risk of an arms race and nuclear proliferation, and informed him of the measures to be imposed on Pakistan," said Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific) Raymond Chan.

Canada's earlier offer to provide Pakistan with development assistance funds withdrawn from India was contingent on Pakistan not conducting nuclear testing. This offer has therefore been rescinded and further measures will be considered.

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Debora Brown

Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs

(613) 995-1851

Hilary Humphrey

Office of the Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific)

(613) 995-1852

Media Relations Office

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

(613) 995-1874

This document is also available on the Department's Internet site: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca