ISLAMABAD, DECEMBER 23: The military regime in Pakistan has reportedly decided to sign the CTBT by mid-January following extensive "behind the scenes informal diplomacy" with the US, but has made it clear that it reserves the right to carry out more nuclear tests if India rejects the treaty, a leading daily here reported today.The decision to sign the CTBT next month was okayed at a crucial joint meeting of the National Security Council, the highest decision-making body of the military regime in Pakistan, and the federal cabinet here yesterday, English daily Pakistan Observer said.In fact, the official announcement after the meeting last evening also gave ample hints that the Gen Musharraf-led regime had made up its mind over signing the CTBT.The statement quoted foreign minister Abdul Sattar as saying while briefing the meeting on the CTBT that the treaty only prohibits nuclear tests and does not affect possession or enhancement of nuclear capability or production of fissile material. This, analystssaid, was an obvious move to clear the way for signing of the CTBT.The foreign minister also clarified that the treaty would not come into force until signed and ratified by all 44 states that have either nuclear weapons or nuclear reactors, including New Delhi and Islamabad. "Thus, if India does not sign, Pakistan would retain the right to conduct tests".
