February 6, 2004 PAKISTAN'S 'NUCLEAR BOMBSHELL' EVOKES PROLIFERATION 'NIGHTMARE'

February 6, 2004

PAKISTAN'S 'NUCLEAR BOMBSHELL' EVOKES PROLIFERATION 'NIGHTMARE'

KEY FINDINGS

** Pakistani scientist's sale of nuclear technology is "a wake-up call to the world."

** Pakistani papers cite need for greater safeguards, fear international attempts to "roll back" the country's nuclear program.

** Dr. Khan's confession isn't enough; Pakistan "must come clean on the flow of know-how."

MAJOR THEMES

Pakistan acting 'like a rogue state'-- Reacting to news that "the father of the Islamic bomb," Dr. A.Q. Khan, had sold nuclear secrets to Libya, Iran and North Korea, global observers labeled Pakistan an "irresponsible nuclear state" and a "proliferator on a par with Pyongyang." India's pro-BJP right-of-center Pioneer argued that nuclear-armed "Pakistan is emerging as a failed state" and this "does not augur well for world peace." Western papers concluded that the "reservoir of money-hungry fanatic scientists" is larger than thought and that Khan's activities brought "the global nightmare of 'rogue' nuclear scientists" aiding terrorists "several steps closer to reality." The West erred in thinking the proliferation risk "emanated from 'failed states'," said Germany's center-right Frankfurter Allgemeine; "even in a country where the military" holds sway, "astonishing activities are possible." Finland's leading daily speculated that in addition to money, Khan's motive "may also have had to do with Islamic solidarity."

Needed: 'cast iron' guarantees against nuclear technology transfer-- Pakistani papers called for restoring "credibility" to the nation's nuclear safeguards and expressed fears that "severe international pressure" could arise aimed at curbing the nation's nuclear program. Khan's statement that he had acted alone offered "breathing space," one daily contended, but pro-Islamic unity Urdu Jasarat held that "his sacrifice will be of no benefit" and would make "the posture of our enemies" against Pakistan's nuclear capability stronger. Other Urdu-language papers warned that "America cannot tolerate" a nuclear-armed Islamic country and "wants to deprive Pakistan of the capability by any means." President Musharraf was "sacrificing national heroes" like Khan--whose "services to the nation will never be forgotten"--to "appease" the U.S.

Khan's confession 'hard to believe'-- Many writers greeted Khan's "convenient mea culpa and quick pardon" skeptically. European outlets dismissed Kahn's claim to have acted independently as "implausible" and a "cover-up." Musharraf's pardon was designed to "defuse domestic" tensions and protect others in the Pakistani military. The "whole affair...was orchestrated," declared Canada's leading Globe and Mail. Pakistan's leading mass-circulation Jang said the "primary question" lingered: "why did Pakistan's military and other intelligence agenices...remain unaware" of Khan's transactions? Washington's "remarkably muted" reaction to the "aberrations" of Pakistan was attributed to the fact that the U.S. "cannot afford to destabilize" its key ally in the war on terror. Papers in Europe, Japan and Canada nonetheless demanded that Islamabad "disclose everything" it knows about nuclear trafficking.

EDITOR: Steven Wangsness

EDITOR'S NOTE: This analysis is based on 53 reports from 16 countries, January 30-February 6, 2004. Editorial excerpts from each country are listed from the most recent date.

EUROPE

BRITAIN: "Nuclear Bombshell"

The left-of-center Guardian editorialized (2/6: "The failure to find WMD in Iraq had undermined the credibility of the U.S. and Britain and their intelligence agencies on this critical issue.... Meanwhile, a far more serious WMD-related failure has come to light, involving a clandestine proliferation network linking North Korea, Iran, and Libya, and whose epicenter is Pakistan.... In many respects, Pakistan's failure is an international failure, too. Where was the intelligence that should have exposed this incredibly dangerous nukes-for-cash racket?... The answer is that they only had eyes for Iraq."

"Bombs For Sale"

The independent Financial Times took this view (2/6): "Although Mr. Khan is flamboyantly wealthy, the theory advanced by Pakistan's military rulers that he acted for personal gain and without the knowledge of the authorities is implausible.... There is not much good in all this, except that Libya's decision to abandon weapons of mass destruction has now brought to light a previously hidden network of nuclear proliferators. This has forced Gen. Musharraf to take action, revealed another failure of western intelligence and exposed Washington's Faustian pact with Islamabad in the war on terror.... Gen.Musharraf and Mr. Khan must disclose everything they know about the international trafficking networks. That should help, and be followed by, an urgent review of current non-proliferation treaties to shut down the underground trade so starkly revealed this week."

"Pakistan Still Has Many Questions To Answer"

The conservative Daily Telegraph commented (2/6): "Washington will now have to decide how to react to the aberrations of an ally that, by rights, should be bracketed as a proliferator with North Korea. In the meantime, there are many leads in other parts of the world, from Western Europe to the Middle East and South-East Asia, that must be pursued. Pakistan's delinquency should serve as a wake-up call to a world where a scientist like Dr. Khan could, through false end-user certificates, call on a large number of companies to further his goal. Meeting the danger of proliferation has acquired a startling new urgency."

"Pakistan Behaves Like A Rogue State"

The conservative Daily Telegraph editorialized (2/4): "Dr. Khan not only developed Pakistan's nuclear arsenal, but in the process also passed on the designs and technology for producing enriched uranium to Iran, North Korea and Libya.... Islamabad, a key ally of the West in the war on terror, has turned out to be a proliferator on a par with Pyongyang.... The problem for Washington and its allies, for which they deserve sympathy, is that a successor to Gen. Musharraf, especially of the Islamist variety, might be a good deal worse. For that reason, the Bush administration is likely to accept any pardon of Dr. Khan through gritted teeth, arguing that Pakistani proliferation is a thing of the past.... Mr. Bush finds himself caught between particular needs in one theater of operations and a strategic determination to halt proliferation. The contradiction is among the most striking thrown up by the seismic shock of September 11."

GERMANY: "Intolerable"

Center-right Frankfurter Allgemeine remarked (2/6): "This was quick. The day after Khan begged for forgiveness on Pakistani TV, he was pardoned. President Musharraf may now hope to have defused domestic explosives. In the eyes of Muslim fanatics, passing material for building an atomic bomb to Libya, Iran, and North Korea does not push the national hero of his pedestal. But pardoning the 'father of the Pakistani bomb' should not satisfy the rest of the world.... It has to be made clear to Musharraf that such situations are intolerable for a pivotal ally in the fight against terror. But the West is to blame too that the situation got so far. Ever since Pakistan declared itself to be a nuclear power in 1998, nobody seriously tried to bring the country into the nonproliferation treaty."

"Musharraf's Bomb"

Karl Grobe commented in left-of-center Frankfurter Rundschau (2/6): "The pardoning of the 'father of the Pakistani bomb' sends waves throughout the South Asian subcontinent. Abdul Qadeer Kahn used means to gathered information for building nuclear weapons that go far beyond scientific curiosity. He admitted to have passed it on to North Korea, Libya and Iran. President Musharraf listened sympathetically and advised his government to temper justice with mercy. That is a big bang, Musharraf's bomb. Khan declared that no government administration gave him permission or knew about it. To believe this one has to be a Pakistani officer. Musharraf was one until the coup that boosted his career. General Aslam Beg brokered the first deal with Iran in 1989, which was immediately stopped by the leader Benazir Bhutto when she heard about it. Despite being distant to the military, she had been informed. Musharraf is supposed to have known nothing? Can one believe it? No. The president accepts gratefully the whitewash because he is dependent on the military, which loves the bomb because it seems to protect the country against India, and on journalistic and public opinion, which admires Khan as a national hero. But Musharraf is also dependent on the U.S., as he is a proven anti-terrorist; the man under whose eyes Khan and his people proliferated nuclear technology and made state terrorism a business line. Pakistanis should not be punished for it, they are punished enough already."

"Black Marketer"

Center-right Frankfurter Allgemeine had this to say (2/3): "The unpleasant things of the Khan case are that they question two alleged certainties of western diplomacy. First, the West had assumed that nuclear scientist would sell their expertise only if their chances for a professional career were meager...but Kadir Khan is a national hero in Pakistan who achieved almost everything, but who, nevertheless, sold material for the construction of the bomb to Libya, Iran and North Korea. The reservoir of money-hungry fanatic scientists is bigger than expected. Second, the West thought that the proliferation risk emanated from 'failed' states torn apart by civil war. But Khan's confession teaches us that even in a country, where the military has the say, astonishing activities are possible. It is hardly imaginable that he acted without high-ranking wirepullers in the background. The West, including Washington, should not feel impressed by the external stability of such regimes, even though they are needed in the fight against terrorism."

"Removal Of A Hero"

Business daily Financial Times Deutschland of Hamburg judged (2/3): "Pakistan's President Musharraf is risking much, but he has no other choice. By firing prominent nuclear scientist Abdul Qadir Khan, he won support from the United States, but as far as domestic policy is concerned, he will now have even more enemies.... But Musharraf had to drop Kahn, because he, at any cost, wants to avoid the impression of promoting proliferation. This is a success for the United States: it clearly showed how to deal with rogue states, and in the long run, even Pakistan cannot hope to be unassailable as an ally in the fight against terrorism.... But Khan is only a pawn; while the signal itself cannot be underestimated. Pakistan hesitantly decided to allow greater transparency. The United States must strengthen the country on this course by relying on a carrot-and-stick policy. It should not ask too much of Musharraf and not openly prefer India.... The West cannot want Musharraf's further domestic weakening, since the reconciliation process with India has only just started."

"In A Fix"

Center-right Dresdner Neueste Nachrichten remarked (2/3): "General Musharraf is in a fix. What did the president know about the perfidious activities of national hero Khan?... Until today, he played the role of someone who did not know anything. Now that Khan has revealed some secrets and admitted that he transferred documents on nuclear technology to Iran, Libya, and North Korea, Islamabad is all of a sudden finding itself close to the 'axis of evil.' Khan is not an unwritten piece of paper for the West...but the United States left him in peace, depending on Pakistan's usefulness for Washington's strategic plans."

RUSSIA: "Khan Case Revved Up By Washington"

Andrey Terekhov commented in centrist Nezavisimaya Gazeta (2/3): "With the Bush administration in trouble over Iraq, the Khan case may have been inspired by Washington. Pakistan, which has long been suspected of nuclear technology transfer, has been subjected to massive pressure from the United States in the past few weeks. Washington is eager to come before the world, as well as the public at home, with yet another victory in the war on WMD proliferation (after Libya). That leaves General Musharraf in a balancing act between the United States and the opposition inside his country, which can portray the president as America's lackey."

ITALY: "Musharraf Pardons Scientist Who Passed On Nuclear Secrets"

Gabriel Bertinetto opined in pro-democratic left party daily L’Unità (2/6): “All is settled, and with mutual satisfaction. The father of the Pakistani atomic bomb has taken responsibility for the leakage of military technology to Libya, Iran and North Korea. President Pervez Musharraf immediately pardoned him, evidently satisfied at removing suspicion off Islamabad’s military establishment, which he leads. The entire operation, however, looks like a cover-up, or even fraud. Mohammed El Baradei, the head of the IAEA, has expressed some general doubts and worries.... 'This is only the tip of the iceberg,' said Baradei. He believes that Khan did not act alone and that others were involved as well.... No one is convinced that this is the entire truth. Washington probably isn’t either but at the moment it cannot afford to destabilize Pakistan while the hunt for Osama bin Laden and other al-Qaida members is still on, and whose most important bases are probably located somewhere in Pakistan and Afghanistan.... If [Washington] were to demand the whole truth from Pakistan now, it would embarrass Musharaff...and would risk losing him.”

"Be Wary Of Friends"

Marcello Foa commented in pro-government, leading center-right daily Il Giornale (2/6): “It’s enough to give you the chills, not once, but twice. The first reason for concern is evident: Pakistan, a nuclear power, that has always been a U.S. ally, has for years covertly sold nuclear technology to countries that are enemies of the West like Iran, North Korea, and until a few months ago, Libya. President Musharraf put the entire blame on Khan, the father of the Pakistani nuclear bomb. The second reason for apprehension is the result of the great delay with which the western intelligence services discovered the atomic haggling, which dates back to the mid 80s to late 90s, perhaps even 2002.... The controversy over Saddam Hussein’s WMD is still too fiery to allow for calm evaluations. But once spirits cool and the truth is established (even if Washington and London will not like it), the American strategists and CIA experts will have to draw a lesson from these incidents.”

FINLAND: "Nuclear Weapons Technology For Sale All Over The World"

Leading centrist Helsingin Sanomat editorialized (Internet version, 2/4): "At a recent conference in Davos, Mohammed Al-Baradei, the head of the IAEA, warned that the black market in the materials and technologies needed for the building of nuclear weapons has grown into a worldwide trading network.... In addition to money, in the case of Pakistan the motive may also have had to do with Islamic solidarity, because their technology has been allowed to end up in Iran and Libya for their use.... The greatest actual danger may lie in the possibility that some nuclear state, such as Pakistan, might slide into a state of internal anarchy and lose control of its nuclear deterrent. The deals that were worked out by Pakistani experts, perhaps acting on their own, were already sufficiently alarming news. It is obvious that getting control of the black market in nuclear weapons technology is in the international interest, and in order to accomplish this we shall need to have a high degree of cooperation between governments."

IRELAND: "Scientists Aiding Terrorists Is The New Nightmare"

Rahul Bedi wrote from New Delhi in the center-left Irish Times (2/3): “Musharraf faces a tricky situation given Pakistan's murky nuclear past. The global nightmare of ‘rogue’ nuclear scientists aiding terrorist groups to acquire ‘dirty’ or radiological dispersal bombs leapt several steps closer to reality at the weekend. This followed the confession of detained Pakistani atomic scientist Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan.... The involvement of the Pakistani authorities...remains in doubt. President Pervez Musharraf recently suggested as much claiming that during the secretive phase of developing the nuclear bomb, Pakistani scientists, with little or no accountability, had enormous amounts to spend. But he faces a tricky situation. He wants to clear Pakistan's name, but, given its murky nuclear past, cannot afford a public trial of any of the ‘guilty’ scientists, which may open a Pandora's box.... Ultimately, the outcome of the nuclear proliferation scandal depends on the U.S., its alliance with Gen. Musharraf against terrorism, and his ability to ‘deliver’ Osama bin Laden, the al-Qaida leader, in a U.S. election year. Bin Laden is reportedly hiding in the tribal belt between Afghanistan and Pakistan and cannot be apprehended without the general's active cooperation. Moreover, Washington's record with respect to Pakistan's nuclear weapons program has, like many of its policies in the region, been far from honorable. Successive U.S. administrations turned a blind eye to Pakistan's atomic weapons program during the 1980s when Washington needed Islamabad's help to fight the Soviets in Afghanistan.”

MIDDLE EAST

SAUDI ARABIA: "N-Proliferation Crisis: Pakistan Crosses The Rubicon"

Nasim Zehra wrote from Islamabad in Jeddah's pro-government English-language Arab News (Internet version, 2/5): "In the last one hundred hours accusations and counter accusations involving Pakistan’s present and former military and civilian rulers, scientists, important national institutions and above all the backbone of its security--the nuclear program--were all being debated in the global media. Becoming a flogging horse in the international arena is nightmarish for any nation, especially for one that is a victim of the global media prejudice.... The situation spun out of control following the Feb. 1 assertion by the government that Qadeer Khan had submitted a signed confessional statement.... A showdown involving sections of the state and society over Qadeer Khan’s fate appeared inevitable.... The whole crisis was taking on a political color, especially after an impression spread that Qadeer Khan was being made a scapegoat.... In defense of Qadeer Khan former ministers and army chiefs were publicly revealing details of confidential meetings.... Pakistan has resisted pressure to roll back its nuclear program while choosing to take steps to enhance its credentials as a responsible nuclear state. The question that many Pakistanis raise is whether their country’s approach will lead to the U.S. and the international community playing it straight with Pakistan. Will they accept Pakistan’s nuclear program? Unlikely. It would be a mistake for Pakistan to assume that the U.S. will come to terms with Pakistan’s nuclear program. Having tasted blood in Iran and Libya, the U.S. may seek a rollback of Pakistan’s nuclear program--though not in the short run. Pakistan is an ally in the West’s war on terrorism. Hence pressure may be off for now. But Washington’s policy will remain unchanged. Pakistan must resist such pressures. Nuclear assets are at the heart of Pakistan’s defense. No government will ever give it up. But Pakistan will have to continue to operate as a responsible nuclear power--making its own systems foolproof to prevent any proliferation in future."

UAE: "Musharraf Makes A Firm Decision"

The English-language Gulf News had this view (Internet version, 2/2): "It was not been an easy call for Pakistan's president. But the sacking by General Pervez Musharraf of his scientific adviser Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan from his cabinet will put to rest the international community's growing concerns that a nuclear supply route emanated from Kahuta, the nuclear research laboratories once run by the father of Pakistan's nuclear bomb. While it paves the way for prosecution of one of Pakistan's revered heros, a number of questions remain unanswered. Any probe must make public the full extent of Khan's involvement, the role of his scientists, and how this circle operated outside official sanction as Pakistan has claimed. Mohammed El Baradei, chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, who had limited success in negotiating with North Korea in recent months while persuading Iran and Libya to freeze their nuclear programs, must be pleased with Islamabad's active co-operation. The IAEA had found troubling evidence that scientists from Kahuta may have, through intermediaries and for enormous profit, supplied illicit nuclear technology to all three nations. El Baradei dubbed the dirty nukes 'the black bomb' and stepped up the hunt for those who have spun the intricate web of deceit. It will be a long haul. While the international community will be reassured that Pakistan has cut off the nuclear pipeline, the IAEA has to encourage other governments that have turned a blind eye to clamp down on other stops on the nuclear gravy train. For now, it is Musharraf who faces the biggest challenge. He has risked enormous public displeasure in discrediting one of Pakistan's revered heroes. His courage and pragmatism must be applauded. His critics at home must be made to realize that by curbing rogue proliferators Pakistan's leadership is not rolling back its nuclear program. Instead it is ensuring that its nuclear deterrent remains intact but in the right hands."

EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC

CHINA (HONG KONG SAR): "Same Standards Should Apply To Friends And Foes"

The independent English-language South China Morning Post editorialized (2/5): "The war on terror can all too easily be characterized in black-and-white terms. Certainly, this is the way in which U.S. President George W. Bush has presented it. He demonized Saddam Hussein, branded his enemies an axis of evil and told other countries they were either with us or against us. If only the reality were so simple. Recent events in Pakistan, such an important U.S. ally in the post-September 11 world, have provided a telling reminder of the shades of grey that exist. The father of the Muslim nation's nuclear program has confessed to selling weapons secrets and technology to so-called rogue states, including North Korea. Pakistan's government has been at pains to deny any official involvement in the intricate smuggling operation between 1988 and 1997.... These developments do, however, highlight the need to treat all nations--whether allies or foes--by the same standards. Iraq was said to have weapons of mass destruction--and it was attacked. But the real threat may be posed by North Korea which, thankfully, is being dealt with through negotiation. And if North Korea does have nuclear weapons, Pakistan must bear some responsibility--even though it is now a vital U.S. ally in the war against terror."

JAPAN: "Flow Of Nuclear Technology From Pakistan Should Be Probed"

The business daily Nihon Keizai observed (2/6): "Pakistani nuclear scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan has admitted offering nuclear technology to the DPRK, Iran and Libya. Dr. Khan's involvement in the case verifies long-standing international concerns over the flow of nuclear technology from Pakistan to foreign countries. Pakistan should further probe into the case and release details, including how and to what extent the country's nuclear technology was smuggled out of the nation. An international committee should be set up to investigate whether Pakistani government and intelligence officials were involved in the smuggling. The latest case also shows how nuclear materials could easily be smuggled from nuclear powers to terrorism-supporting nations. The safekeeping of nuclear materials is an urgent task for nuclear nations. As long as Pakistan and India refuse to join the NPT, the international community cannot trust these nations' pledge on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons."

"Nuclear Development Of Pakistan"

The conservative Sankei argued (Internet version, 2/3): "Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan...was ousted from his position as prime minister's advisor due to allegations of leaking information on Pakistan's nuclear development to countries like Iran. Since Dr. Khan earned respect as a hero in the Islamic world, his removal is likely to draw hatred from extremists of Islam fundamentalists who are against the Musharraf administration.... Pakistan's nuclear threat became a headache for the international community with the establishment of the Musharraf military government. However, President Musharraf, after his inauguration, shifted his diplomatic stance to a pro-U.S. one and started to make peace with India, and the stabilization of Southwest Asia was beginning to be expected. Therefore, the allegation that Dr. Khan himself was providing enrichment techniques to Iran, North Korea, and Libya was shocking. Pakistan became a world threat as a supplier that distributes nuclear weapons.... The problem is that Dr. Khan is the symbol of Pakistani pride.... The situation may deteriorate depending on how this matter is handled.... There are supporters of extremists within the Pakistani military, and since the military intelligence division was the mother of the Taliban government, there are destabilizing factors within the Musharraf administration. Supposing the Musharraf administration collapses, Pakistan could become an exporter of nuclear weapons. On top of that, nuclear weapons would be proliferated to terrorist organizations and the countries that support terrorism, and the world would face a nuclear threat all of a sudden. The world should not let Pakistan out of sight, but must strengthen its deterrence to prevent nuclear proliferation."

"Nuclear Proliferation"

The liberal Asahi editorialized (Internet version, 2/1): "Pakistan must come clean on the flow of know-how. The world cannot allow the curtain to be brought down in such easygoing fashion on well-grounded suspicions of the clandestine transfer of nuclear technology from a country that possesses such weapons.... It had been suspected for some time that Pakistan exported nuclear technology to Iran, North Korea, Libya and other countries. Now more light is slowly being shed on that.... The international community must band together to block nuclear proliferation. The issue now ranks right alongside the war against international terrorism in importance. In this sense, there is a pressing need to get to the bottom of the flow of nuclear know-how from Pakistan, while also beefing up the IAEA and other arms of the existing nuclear watchdog system.... In view of existing conditions in the Middle East and South Asia, political stability in Pakistan is a must."

SOUTH KOREA: "Controversy Surrounding Pakistani Nuclear Technology Transfer"

The moderate Hankook Ilbo editorialized (2/6): “We worry about the possible negative impact of a top Pakistani nuclear scientist’s admission to transferring uranium-enrichment technology to North Korea may have on the upcoming Six-Party Talks aimed at resolving the North Korean nuclear problem. Given that it is becoming a bone of contention whether or not the North actually has a highly enriched uranium-based nuclear program, the Pakistani admission will obviously cloud the mood of the talks.... However, considering that the resolution of the nuclear issue is being delayed by conflicts between the U.S. and North Korea over ways to resolve the problem, not by their divergent claims over the North’s nuclear capabilities, the success of the talks hinges on whether the U.S. and the North have the will to resolve the issue. With this Pakistani controversy expected to push the U.S. to step up its pressure on the North, it is important for the ROK to respond wisely, considering various circumstances in the run-up to the Six-Party Talks.”

SOUTH AND CENTRAL ASIA

INDIA: "Scientist's Admissions Expose Pakistan"

The centrist Hindu observed (2/6): "The repeated claims made by the Pakistani state that it was a 'responsible' nuclear power have been severely undermined by the details contained in the public statement made by the Bhopal-born Dr. Khan on Pakistan television.... Clearly, the Pakistani establishment would like to make a distinction between 'institutional' and 'individual' proliferation. But the fact is that nuclear weapons secrets have been passed on.... No more need be said.... Anyone who saw the television pictures of the Qadeer Khan-Musharraf meeting...could not have missed the grim face of the president. And with good reason. Pointing a finger at an army chief and president in Pakistan cannot be tolerated by the establishment. It is clear that the Pakistani establishment wants to put an end to this sorry proliferation chapter. The dubious means used to acquire Pakistan's nuclear bomb-making capability was tolerated in the past, but in the post-Iraq world, where a country was invaded to thwart what was touted as nuclear proliferation on the basis of dubious intelligence, a facility that 'leaks' weapons' technology has to be dealt with sternly.... General Musharraf is a lucky man, yet again because the 'investigation' into nuclear proliferation activities seems to have taken place with the understanding of Washington. Apart from Washington, the deafening silence maintained by India on the issue is the ultimate confidence-building measure that New Delhi can unilaterally offer. And it has.... For Pakistan, retaining its strategic nuclear assets is far more important than who put these in place. Its establishment can sacrifice anyone, including the one-time national hero, Dr. Khan, in order to keep its nuclear assets and, simultaneously, satisfy the American-led international community that something is being done to tackle nuclear proliferation."

"Pakistan's Dirty Nuclear Secrets"

Anil Narendra wrote in the pro-BJP right-of-center Pioneer (2/6): "Serious concerns regarding the danger of Pakistan's nuclear weapons technology falling into wrong hands have been expressed for long. These fears have turned real.... The Pakistani investigation is nearing its end. General Musharraf's critics say the Pakistani military as a whole should be held accountable.... Further, U.S. officials at all levels do not assign responsibility for the barter agreement between North Korea and Pakistan.... It is presumed the silence regarding the transfer of nuclear technology to North Korea was sanctioned at the Government level while Dr. Khan was freelancing for Iran and Libya.... The important issue rarely addressed is the extent to which the inquiry has examined the role of Pakistan's military in the sale or sharing of nuclear technology.... For some time now, Pakistan has tried to project itself as a normal state where everything, especially its nuclear program, weapons and technology, are safe. But the truth is Pakistan is emerging as a failed state, with nuclear weapons at that. This does not augur well for world peace. For the moment the transfer of nuclear technology is confined to Iran, Libya and North Korea, but what is the guarantee that the same cannot reach--or has not reached-- [bin] Laden and the al-Qaida? What is worrying India is what if a Pakistani general or scientist decides to sell nuclear technology or weapons to Kashmiri terrorists. More is the worry that General Musharraf seems to be losing control. The recent assassination attempts prove this. The military-mullah combine is a threat not only to General Musharraf but to humanity at large. The West has rejected India's concerns about the growing mullah-military axis in Pakistan. With nuclear technology being illegally exported, it is time the West acted decisively against Pakistan."

"A Black Hole"

The nationalist Hindustan Times remarked (2/5): "A huge hole has appeared in the basic notion of nuclear non-proliferation after the exposure of Pakistan's clandestine acquisition of nuclear weapons capability, and its secret transfer of the know-how and design to Iran, Libya and North Korea.... The illegal trade, it is now clear, has been on nearly as long as the doctrine of non-proliferation itself.... The promoters, defenders and propagators of the canon have thus far adopted a cautious stance, making no comment upfront on the Pakistan-related developments. But the man in the eye of the storm...Abdul Qadeer Khan...has started singing lately.... If there is a serious international probe, much dirt is likely to come out. The role of the original nuclear weapons powers will also be under scrutiny, as well as Washington's current espousal of President Musharraf.... The Pakistani bomb has been anything but safe.... Given the military establishment's symbiotic relationship with jIhad over many years, the fundamentalists, too, may be able to acquire a 'dirty' bomb. That will give a nasty twist to the global war on terrorism, to which Islamabad is a reluctant convert. Given Pakistan's tenuous scientific-industrial base, it is widely believed that it can sustain its weapons program only if it remains active in the nuclear black market."

"Artificial Intelligence"

The centrist Times of India editorialized (2/5): "Islamabad was passing N-know-how and technology to North Korea, Iran and Libya as early as the mid-1980s. Yet, for well over 15 years, Washington and the West remained wholly oblivious to the threat. No media leak, no informed speculation, not even a whisper that anything might be amiss. On second thoughts, the silence seems so conspicuously total that it almost rings untrue. Could it be that this was not so much an intelligence lapse as a systematic unwillingness on the part of Washington to face the facts? Pakistan, after all, was for long a key western ally--first for the British and then for the Americans.... It took an event as momentous as 9/11 to break that old mindset. Even in the changed circumstances, however, Islamabad's significance remained undiminished. It was simply redefined. Washington's public show of support for Musharraf, including on the all-important N-proliferation question, is best seen as a tactical choice. Fearful of destabilizing Pakistan and pushing it into the hands of extremists, Washington would rather back the general, in the long-term hope that he'd eventually hand over control of the Pak N-program."

"Unsafe Nuke Powers"

The Guwahati English left-of-center Sentinel took this view (2/5): "Apart from establishing the fact that Pakistan is an irresponsible nuclear power...the news of Khan's recently discovered perfidy raises several questions. These questions stem from the fact that all nuclear powers, big and small, must evolve ways of ensuring that their nuclear scientists are not in a position to share nuclear secrets and know-how with other countries.... It is easier to believe that Khan was sharing these secrets because the military in Rawalpindi wanted him to share nuclear know-how with specified countries. Could that not be the reason why senior former military and intelligence officers are not being questioned? One might well wonder whether Pakistan's discovery of Khan's lack of discretion only now is not the fallout of U.S. revelations and Washington's demands of the kind of action to be taken against him.... Perhaps President Musharraf feels that the pioneering nuclear scientist can be sacrificed now to satisfy American demands, since the required know-how has already been passed on to junior scientists.... Abdul Qadeer Khan is a national hero in Pakistan.... Any action against him to satisfy the U.S. is bound to stir a hornet's nest in Pakistan."

"Qadeer Khan Exposes Pakistan Government's True Face"

The pro-BJP Calcutta Bengali Bartaman observed (2/5): "The Pakistan government would have been embarrassed before the world unless this confession was garnered. America's suspicion would have deepened relating to Musharraf's sincerity in curbing terrorism and proliferation of nuclear arms. U.S. bosses are no longer blind in their affection toward Pakistan as before. Rather, they are ready to compel Pakistan into carrying out some specified tasks. If Musharraf had failed to squeeze out this confession he would earn the wrath of Washington. He could not backtrack then.... It does not seem that Qadeer would shun the path of covert blackmailing even if he does not publicly wash Musharraf's dirty linen. His hidden intent has become clear. He cleverly tries to make the world aware that those who are now set to put him on the dock for delivering nuclear technology to the three countries are actually the chief culprits. Consequently, this has unmasked Musharraf to a large extent."

"Father Of Pakistan's Atom Bomb Being Questioned"

Muhammad Wasimul Haq editorialized Calcutta nationalist Urdu Akhbar-e-Mashriq (2/4): "The truth behind the allegations against Khan is now covered under the...curtain, and it is really hard to have faith in the investigation under a military administration."

"Khan Implicates Musharraf"

The centrist Times of India observed (2/4): "Pakistan's disgraced nuclear scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan has implicated the country's military ruler Pervez Musharraf and three of his predecessor army chiefs in the case he has been accused of.... Khan's charge appears to be his counter-gambit against the country's military establishment.... Khan's implication of Musharraf--revealed through his friends--is also potentially embarrassing for Washington, which on Monday indicated that it is ready to forgive and forget Pakistan's nuclear transgressions and place its faith in General Musharraf. Despite widespread belief in the non-proliferation community that the entire Pakistani establishment, especially the military, was in cahoots with Khan's activities, the Bush administration was in its post-haste clean up.... There was no sign that Washington was particularly perturbed at the gravity of the leaks or the official complicity that most experts believed in. Although there is speculation that Musharraf has cracked down on Khan and his cohorts at the behest of the United States, [State Department spokesman] Boucher distanced the administration from the developments in Pakistan. 'They're the ones conducting the investigation, making any decisions as to what should happen to individuals or programs,' he said. Meantime, there is almost universal disbelief in the non-proliferation community that Khan could have acted alone without state support and complicity, particularly since the smuggling and leaks involved use of planes from the Pakistan Air Force."

"Father In Custody"

The centrist Asian Age commented (2/4): "The founder of Pakistan's nuclear weapons program, Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan is now facing flak for the illegal sale of nuclear technology to Iran, North Korea and Libya. Of these, the first two were designated by U.S. President Bush as part of his infamous axis of evil.... Khan...is now a criminal who is being accused of selling the country's national secrets without the knowledge of the Army or its heavy-handed intelligence apparatus. Pakistan President General Musharraf distanced the Army from its nuclear scientist several weeks ago.... It now turns out that the nuclear material, at least that to North Korea, was transported in government planes, and President Musharraf is really asking too much from the world to believe his fascicle arguments, that 'some individuals' alone were responsible for what has turned out to be a major act of nuclear proliferation.... The nuclear story is far from over, and as facts are unraveled, many more names, and even more countries are likely to be hit by the shrapnel.... Investigations...now suggest that the nuclear transfer was not a one-time operation but carried on for several years at a time.... The startling revelations are just the tip of the iceberg by all accounts. India, for the moment, can take solace in the fact that her nuclear scientist, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam is the President of India while the father of the Pakistan bomb is in custody."

"Defang ISI"

Pro-BJP right-of-center The Pioneer editorialized (2/4): "Understandably, the question has arisen whether Dr. Khan and his associates are being made scapegoats for deals in which Pakistan's military establishment and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Directorate had been involved.... It is safe to assume that if not Pakistan's Government as such, at least a section of its military establishment and the ISI had been closely involved in the nuclear technology transfers and shared the spoils with Dr. Khan and his colleagues. Hence a most disturbing question. If Pakistan's nuclear secrets could reach two countries--Iran and North Korea--which are a part of what President George Bush...has described as 'the axis of evil', what guarantee is there that these will not reach--if they have not already reached--terrorist outfits like al-Qaida? It is not just a question of prosecuting Dr. Khan under Pakistan's Official Secrets Act but of taming the rogue elements in Pakistan's armed forces and the ISI. It will be a difficult task and powerful people involved in the murky business will resist bitterly. President Musharraf has no alternative to acting firmly. Even if the claim by his country's military establishment that there has been no illegal proliferation since the setting up of the National Command Authority, which controls Pakistan's nuclear arsenal, in February 2000, is true, the world will not be reassured about the future unless at least the ISI is defanged."

"The Secret Empire Of Dr. Khan"

Jasjit Singh, former director Institute of Defense Studies and analyses, wrote in the centrist Indian Express (2/4): "What is of critical importance is not only the world's most adventurous multinational nuclear proliferation but the reason Khan has put forward for his activities. Pakistani officials are saying that, contrary to earlier assumptions, he did not do so for money, but that he 'was motivated enough to make other Islamic countries nuclear powers also' and reduce pressure on Pakistan.... The only exception known so far is the supply of nuclear weapon making technology to North Korea for strategic reasons in exchange for long-range ballistic missiles.... Islamism has been deepening in Pakistan for three decades. Its concept of 'strategic depth'...led to intervention in Afghanistan to control Kabul through covert Mujahideen operations. Strategic depth made no sense in modern conventional military terms. But in the context of Islamic jihad, as an instrument of politics by other means...it incorporated deadly logic, especially when the Holy Koran was invoked under General Zia ul-Haq to justify terrorism. To this has been added the strategic depth of an 'Islamic Bomb' whose wherewithal is controlled by Pakistan.... The incontrovertible truth is that Pakistan's nuclear program in every aspect has been, and remains, under the firm and total control of its army at least since 1977. Pakistan has confronted the world with its most serious challenge in limiting proliferation. But the one country which should have spearheaded an objective approach to what must be the biggest, most dangerous and most dramatic spread of nuclear weapons technology since the bomb was invented has already signaled closure in this inconvenient chapter as long as Pakistan takes some legal action against somebody.... Thereby the U.S. has once again demonstrated that its short-term interests override its commitment to non-proliferation."

IRAN: "Treading A Tortuous Path"

Timur Adlee wrote in conservative, English-language Keyhan International (2/1): "The father of Pakistan's nuclear program, Abdul Qadeer Khan, is under a cloud at present for his alleged role in 'leaking' nuclear secrets to some countries. According to news reports, the architect of his country's nuclear weapons development is the latest suspect in the recent furor that has hit the headlines over the proliferation of nuclear technology..... While President Parvez Musharraf has taken a serious, no-nonsense view of the matter, other officials and his administration hold different views.... The Pakistani authorities are apparently in a dilemma. They, on the one hand, want to show their disapproval of the proliferation of nuclear technology tilted towards weapons development...and, on the other, they are chary of ruffling the nation's feathers; a nation that looks upon the eminent scientist's achievements as a feather in the country's technological cap.... A.Q. Khan has given his country, the 'dubious' distinction of being a nuclear power; dubious in the sense that double-standards have been and are being applied by certain powers in so far as nuclear technology is concerned. Some countries are being censured for their rightful, legitimate attempts to harness nuclear power for peaceful purposes while others are indirectly encouraged to develop WMD.... While denying that it had given the nod to the transfer of nuclear technology, the Pakistani government has said that the detained scientists had acted for personal gain if not for anything else. Investigations are continuing and whatever the case, the relevant law of the land will be applied. But with Mr. A.Q. Khan denying any wrongdoing on his part, and given his unique status and popularity among the people, the government will no doubt, have to tread this emotionally explosive path very warily."

PAKISTAN: "Confessional Statement"

The center-right national English daily The Nation remarked (2/6): "The official reaction from the U.S. has by and large been measured though equally nuanced. This is understandable because despite its well-known proliferation concerns the Bush administration badly needs Pakistan's help.... The U.S. mainstream media however remains aggressive on the issue for reasons of its own.... Many fear that in days to come the admission of oversight and intelligence failure along with Dr. Khan's confession might be used to build up a case against Pakistan's nuclear program. The way chosen by the government to deal with the crisis without taking Parliament or prominent politicians into confidence is bound to make those currently in power the target of criticism if indeed the nuclear program is endangered at any stage. "

"After The Apology"

Karachi-based center-left independent national English daily Dawn held (2/6): "Any suspicion that Pakistan remains a possible source of the spread of nuclear technology will render the country vulnerable to severe international pressure to roll back its nuclear program. The problem of a credible assurance to the world is compounded by the lack of democratic traditions in Pakistan.... Led by the government party, a move could be made to secure an all-party agreement of opinion in the National Assembly for a cast-iron constitutional guarantee against proliferation...that would make the spread of nuclear technology a crime, entailing severe penalties for the violator."

"IAEA's Probe"

The centrist national English daily The News stated (2/6): "The investigation launched by the International Atomic Energy Authority (IAEA) into the Europe specific nuclear black market will strengthen Pakistan’s case that the vast illicit market in Europe dealing in nuclear components needs to be mainly blamed for proliferation.... The IAEA’s probe, therefore, admits to a reality that had long been overlooked by the western countries in their zeal to blame states, Pakistan specially.... It is unfortunate that the IAEA became cognizant to the massive nuclear black market in Europe only after Pakistan had raised the issue."

"Confession Of Dr. A. Q. Khan"

Karachi-based, right-wing, pro-Islamic unity Urdu daily Jasarat editorialized (2/6): "If Dr. A. Q. Khan has made his confession to bring the country out of the present nuclear imbroglio, then he is mistaken. His sacrifice will be of no benefit for the country. Rather, his confession has made the posture of our enemies against our nuclear capability more strong. It is likely that right now the United States will not say anything to its friend President Musharraf but shortly it could ask for international control over Pakistan’s nuclear program."

"Demands Of National Security: Highly Careful Strategy"

The leading mass circulation Urdu daily Jang commented (2/6): "It is right that Dr. A. Q. Khan’s confession statement would give Pakistan some sort of breathing space but the primary question remains unanswered: why did Pakistan’s military, and other intelligence agencies under whose direct control and security was country’s nuclear program, remain unaware of all this saga? This question will also be asked for long time to come as to how secure our nuclear program actually is and in how secure, hand it is in?"

"Confession Of Dr. Abdul Qadeer"

Sensationalist Urdu daily Ummat argued (2/6): "The United States is eyeing the nuclear program of Pakistan and it wants to deprive Pakistan of this capability by any means. Had Dr. A. Q. Khan been so greedy and selfish and unpatriotic, as he is now being portrayed under the U.S. pressure, then he would not have provided this nuclear arsenal to the country to make its defense and security impregnable. Presently the American strategy seems to be of maligning Pakistani politicians and scientists and to show complete reliance upon the military men and to absolve them of all accusations in order to get the 'remaining jobs' done. The sacrifice of Dr. A. Q. Khan is a step in this direction."

"Dr. Qadeer Accepts Responsibility"

Second largest Urdu daily Nawa-e-Waqt had this to say (2/6): "By taking the entire responsibility for transfer of nuclear technology on his shoulders, Dr. Qadeer has tried to stop the propaganda (against Pakistan’s nuclear program) but the U.S. is actively working on the agenda it has prepared for Muslim countries, including Pakistan.... Some defense sources have said that there can be no guarantees that the U.S. would not ask Pakistan to roll back its nuclear program.... Undoubtedly, Dr. Khan’s status as a national hero and protector will remain intact, and the last two months of unfortunate events will not lessen his dignity in any way."

"Close The Nuke File Immediately"

The Lahore-based liberal English daily, Daily Times held (2/5): "We simply cannot afford to further erode the credibility of the scientists as well as that of the Pakistan army and its chiefs. The only way out of this crisis is to close the nuke scientists file by accepting the mercy petition of the scientists; by making sure that a repetition of what happened should not take place and that the scientists, while being sealed from further proliferation, should be treated in such a way that they are not able to continue to glorify themselves in the public eye or be in any position to 'leak' more harmful information to the outside world. This is paramount in the interest of the security of our nuclear program, which should be guarded at all cost."

"Dr. Khan's Admission"

The centrist national English daily, The News (2/5): "It is sad that our top scientist who is also known as the 'Father of the Islamic bomb' should have been pushed to such a point where he had made an admission in humiliating language. But in spite of this painful development he has in no way lost any of the esteem he enjoyed. He played a critical role in providing the country a protective jacket at the time when it needed it most. His services to the nation will never be forgotten and he will continue to enjoy the affection he so generously received."

"Struggle To Defend National Symbols"

The Karachi-based, right-wing pro-Islamic unity Urdu daily, Jasarat argued (2/5): "The entire nation has refused to accept the confessional speech of nuclear scientist Dr. A. Q. Khan. The incompetence of the government could be gauged from the fact that it personalized the entire issue of proliferation, which it was not. It was a matter of defending the symbols of national defense. This entire saga has raised one question as to where was this command and control authority during all these preceding years? President Musharraf, in order to make the nuclear scientist a scapegoat, has in fact proven the incompetence of the command and control authority."

"The Law Of The Land And A.Q. Khan"

Lahore-based liberal English daily, Daily Times commented (2/2): "Who paraded Mr. Khan on Pakistan Day as the mascot of our 'national defense'? Who was responsible for carefully constructing his image as superman by planting fables of his greatness in the national press, especially the Urdu one which cares less for stark national reality and more for the mythology of nationalism. According to the Urdu press, Dr. Khan was not supposed to own an inch of land (sic!), had no money, despite the fact that he was able to go to Africa and throw his dollars around like a millionaire.... The government is now doing the right thing by investigating the KRL scientists. It is according to domestic norms and in line with our international obligations.... But the lovers of A.Q. Khan, including lawyers, want him excepted from even an inquiry to determine whether he has broken any laws of the land, including those related to corruption. This is not right. Investigation is in order, which should be followed by a case in the court of law if necessary. No one should be above the law."

"Real Targets Are Nuclear And Missile Programs"

The second largest Urdu daily, Nawa-e-Waqt judged (2/2): "America cannot tolerate any Islamic country possessing nuclear capability. Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan and his associates are being accused of making money in a country where this is no longer an accusation. From generals to judges to bureaucrats, all are of the same ilk.... Inter Services Public Relations Director General said that President General Musharraf would take the nation into confidence after Eid.... On the other hand no secret has remained a secret and generally it is believed that all the activity is aimed at first to deprive Pakistan of its nuclear and missile capability and then launch the 'spring offensive' as disclosed by [U.S. press reports]. Justice demands that Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan should also be given a chance to broadcast his defense on electronic media.... The Afghan and Kashmir policies have been sacrificed already and now the nation is worried about its nuclear and missile program. The nation can not trust the announcement of the National Command Authority that the nuclear program would not be rolled back as the reputation of the government has become suspect."

"A Moral Tragedy"

The center-right national English daily, The Nation editorialized (2/2): "The NCA’s observations about the security of the nuclear program must be reassuring to the international community, especially the U.S., whose pressure has been behind the whole unfortunate episode; but more important, they should signal to the nation that the nuclear program is now in safe hands."

"The Test Of Pakistan And Muslim Ummah"

Center-right Urdu daily Pakistan commented (2/2): "Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan has been a target constantly since 9/11. First he was removed from his position at KRL and now he has been sacked from [his government advisory position].... It is difficult to say what propelled the government to take action against Dr. Qadeer. It is possible that the government took the decision against Dr. Qadeer unwittingly.... On the occasion of Eidul Azha, the Muslim Ummah faces a grave and difficult test; it would have to carve its way forward while carefully looking at the situation."

"Dr. Abdul Qadeer’s Dismissal And Investigation"

The Lahore-based populist Urdu daily Khabrain observed (2/2): "The fact should be kept in mind that dismissal of Dr. Qadeer does not mean his conviction. This has been done to make the investigation transparent.... What is needed is that the government should accelerate the process of investigation and bring the results before the nation."

"The Sacrifice Of National Heroes"

Karachi-based, right-wing pro-Islamic unity Urdu daily, Jasarat contended (2/2): "President Musharraf has sacrificed the real national heroes in order to appease the United States and to save the skin of his fellow generals. Gen. Musharraf has been sacrificing one thing or the other for the U.S. and now he has sacrificed Dr. A. Q. Khan for the security of his breed of generals. This has once again shown that the real security risks in this country are the generals."

"Scapegoat?"

The sensationalist Urdu daily, Ummat opined (2/2): "We would have to make sure that nobody is made scapegoat in order to save the skulls of few others. Whatever the nation is made to hear or read is all one-sided. The 'accused' are not being allowed to air their view or standpoint. The government should take the nation into confidence and lay the facts before it."

WESTERN HEMISPHERE

CANADA: "Pakistan Lets Dr. Khan Take The Nuclear Blame"

The leading Globe and Mail editorialized (Internet version, 2/6): "Now that Pakistan's top nuclear scientist has confessed...President Pervez Musharraf and the rest of the country's military leadership must think they have closed a deeply disturbing and highly embarrassing chapter in the country's history. It would be a shame if that proved to be the case, because the convenient mea culpa and quick pardon have produced far more troubling questions than satisfying answers about Pakistan's long-suspected key role in nuclear proliferation to rogue states.... General Musharraf yesterday granted Dr. Khan a full pardon. A reward to a national hero for his scientific contributions, as the President claimed, or for taking all the blame upon himself and giving the government a convenient way out of a sticky predicament? Or was it a politically necessary move, because Dr. Khan is revered among Muslim nationalists, who are already deeply unhappy with Gen. Musharraf over his close U.S. ties? The whole affair--from heartfelt public confession to clemency--was orchestrated from beginning to end.... Gen. Musharraf said its investigation was at an end. He rejected calls for an independent inquiry and refused to consider sharing documents with the IAEA.... Yet it is hard to believe that a few greedy scientists could have concocted such a scheme involving the transportation out of the country of tightly guarded military documents and equipment...without the approval or knowledge of anyone else in authority.... The Bush administration's response has been remarkably muted, even though it is now clear that Pakistan's activities were a bigger threat to world security than those of Saddam Hussein..... It's easy to understand Washington's response. The last thing it wants is to undermine Gen. Musharraf's already shaky position and possibly usher in a much less friendly regime in Pakistan that could reignite tensions with India and endanger efforts to stabilize Afghanistan. Its prime interest is in destroying the nuclear smuggling ring that enabled Dr. Khan to evade detection for so many years. But if Gen. Musharraf wants to stay in the West's good books, he should sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and allow UN inspections, something even Libya is now doing."

"Nuclear Nightmare"

The liberal Toronto Star editorialized (2/3): "Successive Pakistan regimes tolerated, if not encouraged, a culture where top scientists felt free to flog nuclear secrets to some of the world's most problematic countries, increasing the risk that terrorists might one day lay their hands on nightmare weapons. That has left U.S. President George Bush trying to stuff the genie back into the bottle, with mixed success. Libya has been spooked into giving up its nuclear program. Iran is letting United Nations inspectors conduct more aggressive visits to its nuclear plants. And North Korea has offered to suspend its bomb program, if the U.S. offers warmer relations. Even so, the world is no safer than five years ago, when India and Pakistan openly tested bombs.... If anything, the world's tolerance for nukes is growing.... Without American moral leadership, this threat will not recede. Yet Bush is singularly ill-placed to preach restraint. He made it clear in his Nuclear Posture Review of 2002 that he's prepared to use nukes first, even against a non-nuclear adversary. He's funding new 'tactical' nukes, has budgeted for more fissile materials and wants a test site readied. In short, he's making the unthinkable, thinkable, by lowing the bar to using nuclear weapons."

ARGENTINA: "Investigation In Pakistan"

Daily-of-record La Nacion commented (1/30): "In the recent years, the international community has openly suspected that Pakistan has had some sort of active participation as one of the countries responsible for WMD proliferation, along with North Korea, Iran and Libya. Some drastic measures adopted recently by the Pakistani government lead us to hope that some light will be shed on this issue. In effect, the Pakistani government has just banned all the main members of the nuclear program team...from leaving the country.... In an address to the country's parliament, President Pervez Musharraf assured that his country should currently demonstrate it has not participated in WMD proliferation. For this purpose, the investigation should be transparent. On the contrary, Pakistan will be subject to all kinds of pressures to reveal the content of its nuclear program and to assure that no more leakages will happen in the future. For this last purpose, the control system should assure an adequate involvement of international organizations in charge of controlling dangerous WMD. Curiously enough, the same men who were applauded and admired until recently as heroes amid nationalistic fervor are now being in some way humiliated by the ongoing investigation.... Some believe the military...is seeking scapegoats to cover its own responsibility in past acts. Whatever the reason may be, the time has come for Pakistan to dispel such serious suspicions, which have clouded its foreign image for a long time."