SOURCE: AFI
India has played a crucial role in spotlighting the dangerous nexus between Pakistan and North Korea during the recent Tokyo Quad Foreign Ministers’ meeting. By successfully incorporating references to the proliferation of nuclear and missile technologies linked to North Korea into the joint statement, India has set a significant precedent.
This marks the first time the Quad grouping – comprising India, the US, Japan, and Australia – has explicitly addressed the North Korean proliferation axis beyond its immediate region. The move underscores India’s growing diplomatic influence and its commitment to combating nuclear proliferation.
At the heart of this issue lies the infamous Abdul Qadeer Khan network, which facilitated the transfer of sensitive nuclear and missile technology between Pakistan and North Korea in the mid-1990s. Khan’s involvement in this illicit trade is well-documented, with reports indicating at least 13 trips to North Korea to oversee the operation.
India’s proactive stance on this matter is a testament to its concerns about the destabilizing impact of nuclear weapons in the region and beyond. By raising this issue at the Quad level, India has not only strengthened its diplomatic position but also galvanized global efforts to counter nuclear proliferation.