WESTERN PERCEPTION TOWARDS NUCLEARIZATION: CASE STUDY OF PAKISTAN AND INDIA

Abstract

The nuclearization and proliferation of nuclear weapons in South Asia is always remaining a matter of international concern, particularly since the two newest entrants to the nuclear club have an adversarial relationship. The series of nuclear tests conducted by, India and Pakistan in 1998, have confirmed their nuclear capability. The possibility of a nuclear conflict between both countries cannot be ruled out by the world community. Since 1998, an endless debate has begun in the West, expressing apprehension on a nuclear arms race and proliferation of nuclear weapon and accidental or intentional use of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD). The nuclear tests was criticized by the whole world, especially by the major powers which decided to impose sanctions on both countries and stressed to sign the NPT and CTBT immediately. Due to internal pressure both countries not only refute to sign these treaties but process of nuclearization is still in progress. The main purpose of the article is to examine the perception of the EU during 1971 till 1998 towards this sensitive issue related to nuclearization and proliferation of nuclear weapons in South Asia region.