(a) whether Pakistan conducted a series of missile tests in 2002;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the reaction of the Union Government, the US, Russia and other world powers thereto?
(a) whether Pakistan conducted a series of missile tests in 2002;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the reaction of the Union Government, the US, Russia and other world powers thereto?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS(SHRI DIGVIJAY SINGH)
a) Yes, Sir. Pakistan conducted a series of missile tests in May 2002.
b) On May 25, Pakistan tested a liquid-fuelled, medium-range (1500 kms) missile called Hatf V (Ghauri). The next day, a solid-fuelled, short-range (290 kms) missile called Hatf III (Ghaznavi) was tested. On May 28, Pakistan tested a short range (180 kms) Hatf II (Abdali) missile. All the three tests of surface-to-surface ballistic missiles were claimed to be successful by Pakistan.
c) In response to Pakistan`s decision to conduct a series of missile tests, India had stated that it was `not impressed by these missile antics, particularly when all that is demonstrated is borrowed or imported ability`. India urged the international community to fathom the `actual mindset of the Pakistani leadership`. President Bush expressed `strong reservations` over the Pak missile tests. Russia described these tests as being `at variance` with the statements of the Pakistani leadership and called upon Pakistan to `refrain from any actions leading to an escalation of tensions`. Japan urged Pakistan to show `self restraint`. The EU too expressed concern over Pak decision to conduct tests.