WASHINGTON, March 10 (UPI) -- The United States urged Pakistan Wednesday to scale back its missile program after it test fired a ballistic missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads.
"We continue to urge Pakistan and other countries in the region to exercise restraint in their nuclear weapons and missile programs, as part of an ongoing effort to relieve tensions and build confidence in the region," State Department spokesman Richard Boucher said.
Pakistan Tuesday tested a new missile called Shaheen-II with a reach of 1,200 miles, exceeding the range of Pakistan's previous longest-range missile, which could travel up to 930 miles.
Both missiles are capable of carrying nuclear weapons.
Pakistani defense experts said Shaheen-II could reach such Indian cities as Calcutta and Madras, which previously were out of Pakistan's reach.
Defense experts in Washington told UPI the test displays Pakistan's intention to keep its nuclear weapons despite international pressure to reconsider its nuclear policy.
