Commemorating Youm-e-Takbeer, ISSI hosts Seminar on Missile Developments in South Asia: Global and Regional Implications

Islamabad - May 28, 2024 (Connect Pakistan) : The Arms Control and Disarmament Centre (ACDC) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) organized a seminar titled “Missile Developments in South Asia: Global and Regional Implications” to mark Youm-e-Takbeer. Esteemed guests and experts gathered to deliberate on the evolving dynamics of missile technology and its ramifications on regional stability. General (R) Zubair Mahmood Hayat NI(M) HI(M), former Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, graced the occasion as the chief guest. Distinguished speakers included Dr. Zafar Nawaz Jaspal, Air Commodore (R) Khalid Banuri, Ms. Ghazala Yasmin Jalil, and Dr. Naeem Salik, who provided insightful analyses on various facets of missile developments in South Asia. In his keynote address, General Zubair Mahmood Hayat underscored the ideological and strategic shifts in India, emphasizing the implications of its missile development programs on regional and global security. He highlighted the expansionist agenda driving India's strategic intent and the need for a comprehensive response from Pakistan. Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, DG ISSI, reflected on the significance of Youm-e-Takbeer and Pakistan's commitment to maintaining robust deterrent capabilities. He reiterated Pakistan’s role as a responsible nuclear state and emphasized the proactive approach needed to mitigate risks stemming from India’s advancements in missile technology. Malik Qasim Mustafa, Director ACDC ISSI, emphasized the challenges posed by India’s nuclear and military modernization drive, urging a concerted effort to uphold regional strategic stability. The seminar featured discussions on global missile developments, India's ambitious missile programs, missile defense systems, and hypersonic missile technology. Experts examined the strategic implications of these advancements and proposed policy measures to address emerging threats. The event concluded with a comprehensive Q&A session, fostering dialogue and exchange of ideas among participants.