ISLAMABAD — Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday condemned what he called “double standards” in global nuclear and missile non-proliferation regimes, saying it is unfair that some countries are allowed to maintain ballistic missile capabilities while others face restrictions.
Speaking at a public event, Sharif said the international system governing strategic weapons lacks consistency and credibility, arguing that selective enforcement of rules undermines global trust and stability.
“It is not acceptable that some states are permitted to possess ballistic missiles while others are denied the same right,” he said, according to remarks reported by local media.
The Pakistani leader also expressed strong support for Iran, framing relations between Islamabad and Tehran in terms of regional solidarity and cooperation. He said Pakistan would “never disappoint” Iran and would not act against its interests, using language of “brotherhood” between the two countries.
The remarks come amid heightened regional tensions over missile development and nuclear policy across the Middle East and South Asia, where disputes over deterrence capabilities and sanctions remain a key source of friction.
Analysts say Pakistan has long argued that global arms control frameworks should be applied uniformly, without political bias or selective enforcement.
