Pakistan Concern Over Canada-India Uranium Deal Raises Nuclear Non-Proliferation Questions

Pakistan has expressed concern over the Canada-India uranium deal, warning it may affect global nuclear non-proliferation efforts.

The statement came after Canada and India agreed on a long-term uranium supply arrangement and cooperation on advanced nuclear technologies. The agreement was announced during high-level talks between leaders of both countries in New Delhi.

Pakistan’s Foreign Office said the Pakistan concern over Canada-India uranium deal is linked to the need for fair and non-discriminatory nuclear cooperation worldwide.

Foreign Office Response

Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said civil nuclear cooperation should follow equal standards for all countries. He stressed that rules must apply equally to states that are not members of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

According to Andrabi, selective exceptions weaken the credibility of the global non-proliferation system. He warned such arrangements could affect regional and international security.

He also noted that India conducted its first nuclear test in 1974 using plutonium from a reactor supplied by Canada for peaceful purposes. That test eventually led to the creation of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).

Concerns Over Nuclear Oversight

Andrabi said India has not placed all its civilian nuclear facilities under the safeguards of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Several facilities remain outside international inspection. Pakistan says it is also unclear what non-proliferation assurances are attached to the new agreement.

Officials believe the Pakistan concern over Canada-India uranium deal also relates to possible strategic consequences in South Asia.

Strategic Balance in South Asia

The Foreign Office warned that assured uranium imports could free India’s domestic reserves for military use. This could increase fissile material production and expand India’s nuclear arsenal.

Pakistan said such developments may deepen strategic imbalance in South Asia and weaken existing international export control systems.

India and Canada Agreements

India and Canada announced several agreements on Monday in New Delhi. These include cooperation on critical minerals, renewable energy, and nuclear power.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the partnership reflects renewed trust and positive relations between the two countries.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney described the agreements as a fresh start for bilateral ties.

Relations between the two countries had deteriorated in 2023 after Canada accused India of involvement in the killing of Sikh activists on Canadian soil. India rejected those allegations.