Washington, Dec 17 (PTI): Voicing concern over Pakistan's nuclear and missile programmes, the US has asked it to restrain them and avoid any developments that might lead to increased risk to nuclear safety and strategic stability.

"I wanted to say that we do share your concerns particularly about the development of Pakistan's nuclear arsenal. We're concerned most by the pace and the scope of the Pakistan's missile program, including its pursuit of nuclear systems," Special US Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Richard Olson told lawmakers during a hearing on Pakistan convened by House Foreign Affairs Committee.

"We are concerned that a conventional conflict in Southwest Asia could escalate to include nuclear use as well as the increase security challenges that accompany growing stockpiles. We have had a very active dialogue at the highest levels with the Pakistanis in which we have made clear the nature of our very specific concerns," Olson said yesterday in response to a question from Congressman Brian Higgins.

He said the US has asked Pakistan to restrain its nuclear and missile programmes.
"As with all nuclear-capable states, we have urged Pakistan to restrain its nuclear weapons and missile development and stressed the importance of avoiding any developments that might invite increased risk to nuclear safety, security, or strategic stability," he said.

"We are not negotiating a 123 agreement with Pakistan," he said.
His remarks came after US lawmakers asked the American government to be tough on Islamabad as it does not seem to be sincere in improving ties with India and has accelerated the pace of arsenals' production.

Higgins during the hearing alleged that Pakistan is not sincere in improving its relationship with India.