ISLAMABAD, Dec. 10 (Xinhuanet) -- Pakistan has strongly denied allegations of its nuclear cooperation with other countries, terming them "baseless and malicious."

    "Pakistan, as a responsible nuclear power, takes its obligations with utmost seriousness," the Associated Press of Pakistan on Wednesday quoted a senior official of the Foreign Office as saying on Tuesday.

    In response to reports concerning "detention" of a Pakistani nuclear scientist, he clarified that "people associated with sensitive programs in Pakistan are governed by the stringent personnel dependability and debrief program."

    The official said that "this is a normal practice, especially in nuclear weapon states. These people are aware of their responsibilities in terms of their efficiency and conduct."

    When asked whether the individual was related to allegations oftransfer of know-how to Iran, the senior official said Pakistan, as a responsible nuclear power, takes its obligations with utmost seriousness.

    He said that "this includes uncompromising adherence to a policy of not exporting any sensitive technologies to third countries."

    "The allegations that Pakistan has cooperated with any country in the nuclear field are baseless and malicious. There is no substance whatsoever," said the official.

    As to Iran, he said there are reports about many sources from where Iran could have obtained nuclear technology, including several Western companies and individuals.

    "The focus should be on checking out with those sources. We, for our part, are simply carrying out our own procedures," the official said. Enditem