1981
The Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) continues uranium exploration activities. PAEC is conducting geological mapping, radiometric measurements, drilling and subsurface excavations in the Potwar region. The exploration reveals the existence of uranium ores at Isa Khel and Thatti Nasratti. According to investigations, Isa Khel possesses three zones of uranium ore below the surface. Another zone at Thatti Nasratti is investigated to determine its nature.
--"Pakistan," Mining Annual Review, June 1982, Countries, Far East, Pg. 407; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, June 1982, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

Early 1981
Twenty-three Pakistani engineers and officials visit Spain and are taken to various industrial installations and the Junta de Energia Nuclear.
--"Pakistan Could be ready to Accept Bids for A," Nucleonics Week, 8 October 1981, Vol. 22, No. 40, Pg. 2; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 October 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com

8 January 1981
According to an assessment by Ishrat Usmani, former chief of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), Pakistan needs to overcome extreme technological challenges in acquiring sufficient fissile material, either through reprocessing or the enrichment process. In the case of the enrichment process, Usmani predicts that Pakistan will face severe challenges in maintaining the ultra-high speeds for the period necessary for producing weapons-grade uranium. Pakistan, according to Mr. Usmani, will also face problems in acquiring the highly corrosive hydrofluoric acid and handling it. In the case of reprocessing, Usmani states that Pakistan will face difficulties in obtaining spent fuel since the only existing source of spent fuel, the KANUPP reactor, is under IAEA safeguards. Usmani expresses doubts about Pakistan's ability to reprocess sufficient quantities of plutonium necessary for a nuclear device. He concludes that Pakistan might be able to produce only a crude nuclear device even if it manages to produce the necessary fissile material.
--Rob Laufer, "Pakistan's Nuclear Patriarch Faults Homeland's Nuclear Policies," Nucleonics Week, 8 January 1981, Vol. 22, No. 1, Pg. 4; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 January 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

19 January 1981
According to Sunday Times (London), Saudi Arabia will sign an agreement with Pakistan to finance Pakistan's attempts to build an atomic bomb. Saudi Arabia reportedly made the offer several weeks ago at a secret meeting in Europe in order to keep Iraq or Libya from financing Pakistan's nuclear program.
--"Saudi Nuclear Pact," Washington Post, 19 January 1981, First Section, Around the World, A22; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 January 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

22 January 1981
A Pakistani foreign ministry spokesperson denies the Sunday Times report that mentioned the signing of a pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, with the former offering $800 million to finance Pakistan's nuclear program. The spokesperson reiterates that Pakistan's nuclear research and development efforts are totally indigenous. The Pakistani spokesperson also mentions that Saudi Arabia's government has rejected the news report.
--"Pakistan Rejects Report on Saudi-Assisted Nuclear Programme," Xinhua General Overseas News Service, 23 January 1981; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 January 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

2 February 1981
Congressional sources suggest that US nonproliferation laws might be amended to provide assistance to Pakistan. Congressional sources indicate that such measures are prompted by fears that Pakistan might come under Russia's influence. Sources indicate that aid to Pakistan might be included as part of a broader "Persian Gulf Package." Resumption of aid to Pakistan will require a modification of the Symington Amendment to the Foreign Assistance Act and the Glenn Amendment to the Foreign Assistance Act. The Symington amendment prohibits assistance to countries receiving or sending enrichment equipment, material or technology not under international safeguards. The Glenn amendment prohibits assistance to countries involved in unsafeguarded reprocessing deals.
--"Desire to Help Pakistan May Evoke Revision of Symington Amendment," Nuclear Fuel, 2 February 1981, Vol. 6, No. 3, Pg. 12; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 2 February 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

8 February 1981
Pakistan denies recent Canadian television network and a Canadian weekly report that it is involved in clandestine efforts to procure electronic parts in Canada for its nuclear weapons program. Pakistan's embassy in Ottawa restates the peaceful nature of Pakistan's nuclear program.
--"Pakistan Denies Reports of Secret Deals with Canada," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 10 February 1981, Part 3. The Far East, A. International Affairs, 1. General and Western Affairs, FE/6645/A1/2; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 February 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

11 February 1981
Netherlands' Justice Minister Job De Ruiter, in a letter to a parliamentary commission, says that Abdul Qadeer Khan would be investigated under the terms of a law on the unlawful acquisition of state secrets. Mr. Ruiter says that the trial will be held in absentia since A.Q. Khan cannot be extradited to Netherlands to face charges. The Justice Minister also informs that legal proceedings are being taken against two Dutch engineering companies that are believed to have supplied sensitive equipment to Pakistan's uranium enrichment effort. Dutch sources indicate that one of the companies exported at least nine shipments of sensitive equipment that could be used in the construction of the enrichment plant. The sources indicate that at least one of shipments was made without a required export license.
--United Press International, 11 February 1981, International; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 11 February 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

27 February 1981
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director's report announces the outcome of its October 1980 inspections of the Karachi Nuclear Power Plant (KANUPP) reactor as "satisfactory." IAEA officials indicate that the inventory guaranteed that Pakistan is not diverting materials from the nuclear facility for military purposes. IAEA officials also indicate that Pakistan is building an unsafeguarded uranium enrichment facility and a reprocessing facility to produce plutonium from the spent fuel produced in the reactor. The report also informs the IAEA Board of Governors that the source for Pakistan's spent fuel for its reprocessing activities will originate from the KANUPP reactor rather than an existing research reactor.
--Paul Lewis, "UN Atom Agency Lauds Moves by Egypt and Libya," New York Times, 28 February 1981, Section 1, Pg. 3, Column 1, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 28 February 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com; Victoria Pope, "IAEA Reaches Accord on Spain amid Upbeat Safeguards Review Elsewhere," Nucleonics Week, 5 March 1981, Vol. 22, No. 9, Pg. 2; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 March 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

February 1981
Pakistan begins to load its Karachi Nuclear Power Plant (KANUPP) reactor with indigenously produced fuel bundles.
--Milton R. Benjamin, "Handling of Plutonium at Issue; Pakistan backs Atomic Safeguards," Washington Post, 17 November 1982, First Section, World News, General News, A25; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 17 November 1982, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

3 March 1981
Rep. Jonathan B. Bingham (D-Bronx), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on International Economic Policy and Trade, writes a letter to US Secretary of State Alexander Haig Jr., asking him to consider the termination of US nuclear supply to France and Italy. The letter states that the assistance provided by France, Italy, and Switzerland to Pakistan's nuclear program presents a "clear and present danger to the United States and indeed, Western security interests in the Persian Gulf and South Asia."
--Judith Miller, "Cranston Sees Iraq as Nuclear Power by '82," New York Times, 18 March 1981, Section A, Pg. 3, Column 4, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 18 March 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

16 March 1981
Top officials within the US State Department express concern that Pakistan's testing of a nuclear weapon might force India to launch a strike against Pakistan's nuclear installations.
--US News & World Report, 16 March 1981, Washington Whispers, Pg. 18; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 March 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

17 March 1981
US Senator Alan Cranston (D-Ca) alleges that Pakistan is continuing to purchase dual-use nuclear technology from Europe and states that "it [Pakistan] will most likely have the capacity and the materials for fabricating a number of nuclear weapons by the end of 1982." Senator Cranston discloses that he has verified the accuracy of the information with officials in the Reagan administration. Senator Cranston also urges the Reagan administration to threaten to cut-off the supply of nuclear fuel to France, Italy, and other countries if they continue their nuclear cooperation with Pakistan. Certain sources in the Congress and the Reagan administration, pointing to intelligence information, indicate that Pakistan has already designed an atomic bomb. The same sources also reveal that despite the assurances given by the Swiss authorities to stem the export of sensitive nuclear material to Pakistan, such exports are still continuing.
--Edward Walsh, "Cranston says Iraq Prods Europe for A-Arms Data," Washington Post, 18 March 1981, First Section, A15; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 18 March 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com; Judith Miller, "Cranston Sees Iraq as Nuclear Power by '82," New York Times, 18 March 1981, Section A, Pg. 3, Column 4, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 18 March 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

19 March 1981
The Swiss government concludes that exports of nuclear equipment to Pakistan by Swiss firms did not violate any national or international controls. Swiss officials indicate that Swiss firms abided by the trigger list produced by the London Suppliers Club. Swiss officials also express willingness to expand their control list based on a multilateral agreement that is binding on all nuclear supplier countries.
--"Exports to Pakistan by Swiss Firms were not in Violation," Nucleonics Week, 19 March 1981, Vol. 22, No. 11, Pg. 3; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 March 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

19 March 1981
US Secretary of State Alexander Haig Jr., testifying before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, urges Congress to modify existing law in order to "re-establish a dialogue of trust and confidence" with Pakistan. Mr. Haig testifies that he hopes to bring a number of countries into a strategic consensus in order to counter Soviet Union's expansion in the region. Secretary Haig states that Pakistan is not eligible to receive aid under existing laws and indicates that "it is my belief that you get more by removing the insecurities that foster the nuclear thirst" among nations like Pakistan.
--Bernard Gwertzman, "Haig Says US Seeks Consensus Strategy in the Middle East," New York Times, 20 March 1981, Section A, Pg. 1, Column 6, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 March 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

19 March 1981
US Under-Secretary of State James L. Buckley, in his testimony before the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee, urges the repeal of the Symington amendment that prohibits aid to countries that have detonated or are seeking to acquire nuclear weapons. Rep. Jonathan B. Bingham (D-NY) challenges Buckley's request stating that such repeal will encourage Pakistan to pursue its program to develop nuclear weapons.
--Judith Miller, "Reagan Seeking more 'Flexibility' to set Foreign Policy," New York Times, 20 March 1981, Section A, Pg. 6, Column 1, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 March 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

20 March 1981
A spokesperson for the Swiss firm CORA Engineering announces at Chur, Switzerland that the firm is halting all deliveries of equipment for a nuclear facility in Pakistan. According to the spokesperson, a bomb attack on the company and threats against its company executives forced the company to reach the decision to halt the deliveries.
--"Other Reports; Swiss Firm Halts Supplies of Nuclear Equipment to Pakistan," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 28 March 1981, Part 3. The Far East, A. International Affairs, 1. General and Western Affairs, FE/6685/A1/2; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 28 March 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

23 March 1981
US administration officials indicate that the Reagan administration has tentatively decided to offer $500 million in aid to Pakistan. Congressional sources and Administration officials are not sure whether Pakistan will accept the aid offer since it does not wish to be seen as a close associate of the United States. Sources in the Congress and the Reagan Administration indicate that the Reagan administration has tentatively decided to offer $400 million in military credits, $100 million in economic support, and $600,000 in military training. Even though existing laws prohibit any aid to Pakistan, Reagan administration officials have urged Congress in recent days to amend the existing laws reasoning that Pakistan might be deterred from producing nuclear weapons if its security needs are addressed. Some US officials express concern that Pakistan will persist in its attempts to produce nuclear weapons irrespective of the amount of aid given by the United States. Some officials believe that Pakistan can be persuaded from developing nuclear weapons if the United States offers to rewrite the 1959 security pledge pledging to assist Pakistan in case of an attack by India. The 1959 pledge offers assistance only in the case of an attack by a Communist state.
--Bernard Gwertzman, "Washington Plans $500 million in Aid for Pakistanis," New York Times, 24 March 1981, Section A, Pg. 1, Column 3, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 March 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

25 March 1981
The US State Department indicates that the proposed aid to Pakistan will be provided only if Pakistan refrains from testing a nuclear device. The Reagan administration is proposing a change in the existing non-proliferation laws to allow military and other aid to Pakistan as long as it does not explode a nuclear device.
--Jim Anderson, United Press International, 25 March 1981, Washington News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 25 March 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

March 1981
World Bank President Robert McNamara visits Pakistan and the Pakistani government discusses a possible World Bank financing for its 600 Mw second nuclear power plant at Chashma.
--"There are String Indications that Pakistan, Facing the Worst Power Shortage," Nucleonics Week, 14 January 1982, Vol. 23, No. 2, Pg. 10; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 14 January 1982, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

16 April 1981
The Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) awards a contract to Sener, a Spanish firm, for the supply of atomic energy services for the Chashma nuclear power plant. Spanish sources indicate the plant's reactor to be a 600-900 MW light water reactor (LWR). Even though Pakistan has not indicted a specific startup date for the plant, it is expected to begin operations by the end of the decade.
--"The Spanish Company Sener will Supply A-E Services for Pakistan's Chashma," Nucleonics Week, 16 April 1981, Vol. 22, No. 15, Pg. 2; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 April 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

21 April 1981
US Secretary of State Alexander M. Haig and the Pakistani Foreign Minister Agha Shahi conclude one and half days of talks over the proposed US aid package to Pakistan. The new relationship will likely be finalized in the coming months. Shahi announces that the United States has presented a five-year aid proposal. US sources indicate that Pakistan's nuclear weapons program did not come up for major discussion during the talks. The Reagan administration did not seek any new assurances from Pakistan over its nuclear weapons program.
--Don Oberdorfer, "US, Pakistan Progressing on New Aid Plan," Washington Post, 22 April 1981, First Section, A1; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 April 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com; "Pakistan Reports US has offered 5-Year Aid Deal," New York Times, 22 April 1981, Section A, Pg. 1, Column 5, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 April 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

27 April 1981
Senator Alan Cranston (D-Ca) announces that India and Pakistan are preparing test sites for conducting nuclear tests. According to Sen. Cranston, Pakistan is building a horizontal tunnel in a hillside in the Baluchistan Mountains, about 40 miles from the Afghanistan border. Even though Sen. Cranston did not specify the sources for the information, senior Reagan administration officials confirm the information presented by the Senator. Recently, the intelligence community is believed to have provided administration officials with similar information. In a separate incident, two witnesses from the State Department indicate that Pakistan has not provided guarantees that it would not test a nuclear device. The witnesses also indicate that the United States has not requested such a guarantee. During a hearing at the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asian and Pacific Affairs, Leslie H. Brown, Deputy Director of the Bureau of Politico-Military Affairs says that "we haven't sought such assurances, but we don't believe that they could be obtained." Jane A. Coon, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near East and South Asian Affairs indicates that Pakistan and United States are just beginning to rebuild their relationships and suggests that more time is needed before such assurances can be obtained.
--Judith Miller, "Cranston Says India and Pakistan are Preparing for Nuclear Testing," New York Times, 28 April 1981, Section A, Pg. 1, Column 3, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 28 April 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

April 1981
The IAEA informs Pakistan that the safeguards at the Karachi Nuclear Power Plant (KANUPP) reactor would have to be upgraded since Pakistan has started to produce its own fuel for the reactor. The IAEA and Pakistan begin talks over increasing the safeguards mechanism at the reactor.
--Milton R. Benjamin, "Handling of Plutonium at Issue; Pakistan backs Atomic Safeguards," Washington Post, 17 November 1982, First Section, World News, General News, A25; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 17 November 1982, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

5 May 1981
Pakistani officials reject a report by an Indian news agency that Pakistan is preparing to test a nuclear device in the jungles of Sind province.
--"Pakistan Denies making Preparations for Nuclear Blast," Xinhua General Overseas News Service, 6 May 1981; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 May 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

Second Week of May 1981
The Soviet Ambassador to Pakistan Vitaly Smirov indicates that the Soviet Union is willing to assist Pakistan in the nuclear power field. According to the Pakistan Press International news agency, the Soviet Ambassador also offers to provide effective assistance in the field of thermal plants and other ways to overcome Pakistan's energy crisis. Mr. Smirov offers 4 nuclear power units to Pakistan.
--"The Soviet Union is Prepared to Aid Pakistan in the Nuclear Power Field, Soviet Ambassador," Nucleonics Week, 14 May 1981, Vol. 22, No. 19, Pg. 7; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 14 May 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com; "Pakistan has Asked the Soviet Union to Help in the Construction," Nucleonics Week, 22 December 1983, Vol. 24, No. 51, Pg. 3; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 December 1983, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

14 May 1981
The Senate Foreign Relations Committee votes to lift aid restrictions on Pakistan and authorizes $100.6 million in economic and military assistance. The measure is passed by the Foreign Relations Committee and exempts Pakistan from the Symington amendment that prohibits aid to countries that are pursuing uranium enrichment technology and also refuse to provide assurances that they are not developing nuclear weapons. Out of the $100.6 million, $100 million is to be used for security-related economic aid and $600,000 for military training assistance. The measure requires the US president to inform the Senate about the details of the aid program and the Administration's policy to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons.
--Judith Miller, 'Senate Panel Votes to Lift Restrictions on Pakistan Aid," New York Times, 15 May 1981, Section A, Pg. 6, Col. 3, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 15 May 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

16 May 1981
Senator Alan Cranston (D-Ca) alleges that Pakistan's nuclear weapons could end up in the hands of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) either through Libya which, according to Sen. Cranston, is involved in Pakistan's nuclear program or directly from Pakistan since Pakistan's ruler General Haq is the chairman of the Muslim Conference.
--"Cranston Warns Pakistan Bombs Could Wind Up with PLO," Associated Press, 16 May 1981, Washington Dateline; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 May 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

22 May 1981
Turkey rejects press reports indicating that Pakistan and Turkey are jointly planning to conduct a nuclear test. The information department of the Turkish Foreign Ministry indicates that Turkey will not allow nuclear testing on its territory and reiterates Turkey's commitment to pursue peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
--"In Brief; Turkish Denial of A-Bomb Test Reports," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 25 May 1981, Part 4. The Middle East and Africa, C. Greece, Turkey and Cyprus, ME/6732/C/2; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 25 May 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

12 June 1981
The United States decides to offer 15 and possibly more F-16 fighter planes to Pakistan. The planes are to be offered as part of the planned five-year economic and military aid package. The cost of each F-16 fighter plane, including spare parts and other support equipment, is $14.5 million. A State Department official believes that Saudi Arabia might finance the procurement of these planes. The offer is approved at a National Security Council meeting last week despite the objections raised by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the US Air Force (USAF). The OMB insists that the F-5 fighters are cheaper and better suited for Pakistan's requirements. The USAF objected that changes in the production schedules will adversely affect US requirements. Officials from the Pentagon and the State department approve the sale as a symbolic gesture that will indicate the Administration's emphasis on building a strengthened relationship with Pakistan.
--Judith Miller, "Pakistan is being Offered the F-16 as Part of a US Military Aid Plan," New York Times, 13 June 1981, Section 1, Pg. 1, Col. 4, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 13 June 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

15 June 1981
The United States and Pakistan agree on a $3 billion military and economic aid deal to strengthen Pakistan's military in the face of the Soviet threat in Afghanistan. A US State Department spokesperson, David Passage, announces that "This Administration believes that by addressing those security concerns which have motivated Pakistan's nuclear program and reestablishing a relationship of confidence with it offer the best opportunity in the long run for effectively dealing with its nuclear program." The announcement of the deal is made in a joint-statement issued in Islamabad and Washington D.C. following a trip to Pakistan by the Under-Secretary of State for Security Assistance James L. Buckley. The announcement does not include any reference to nuclear weapons. The five-year aid program involves $400 million in loans every year for military purchases as well as $100 million economic assistance annually. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee has already approved a Presidential waiver of the restrictions imposed in 1975 regarding Pakistan's unsafeguarded reprocessing and enrichment facilities. The House Foreign Affairs Committee, however, has not approved such a measure. Therefore, Pakistan's arms program can be vetoed if it fails to win the majorities in both houses of Congress.
--Juan de Onis, New York Times, 16 June 1981, Section A, Pg. 1, Col. 6, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 June 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

17 June 1981
In response to a question over the proposed aid to Pakistan and whether Pakistan has provided assurances not to develop nuclear weapons, US president Reagan refuses to answer whether Pakistan has provided assurances not to test nuclear weapons and indicates that it is important for the United States to assist Pakistan owing to Pakistan's strategic location.
--"Transcript of the President's News Conference on Foreign and Domestic Affairs," New York Times, 17 June 1981, Section A, Pg. 26, Col. 1, National Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 17 June 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

20-21 June 1981
The US State Department, in a secret cable sent to US Embassy in Ankara, asks the Turkish government to end its secret shipments of sensitive equipment to Pakistan that could be used to develop nuclear weapons. According to the cable, Turkish companies are re-routing American-made electric equipment, known as inverters, from Europe to Pakistan. Inverters transform electrical current to charge batteries and operate instruments and are used in nuclear plants. The cable terms the operation as a "covert purchasing network" and claims that Turkish companies have circumvented US and European export controls while conducting these transshipments. The cable also suggests that Pakistan's ruler General Haq might have offered nuclear technology to Turkey in exchange for these transshipments. The cable informs the US embassy in Turkey to inform the Turkish government that continuation of these transshipments will jeopardize Turkey's own aid program. Apart from the secret purchasing network, the cable also warns that Pakistan is seeking technology and material to produce fuel for explosive devices. The cable says that "we [United States] also have information that Pakistan is conducting a program for the design and development of the triggering package for nuclear explosive devices." The cable also warns that a nuclear test by Pakistan will lead to the cancellation of the proposed military and economic aid to Pakistan.
--Barry Schweid, "US Asks Turks to Stop Equipment Shipments," Associated Press, 27 June 1981, Washington Dateline; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 27 June 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

24 June 1981
The US Under-Secretary of State James L. Buckley, in a testimony before the Senate Government Affairs Committee, announces that Pakistan's President and Ministers have provided "absolute assurances" that Pakistan does not intend to develop nuclear weapons. Buckley also states that Pakistan has not provided assurances not to seek a weapons-making ability or peaceful nuclear explosions like the one exploded by India in 1974. In responding to Senator Charles H. Percy's (R-Il) statement that aid to Pakistan will be cut-off if it explodes any kind of nuclear device, Buckley indicates that he has not stated such a clause during his talks with the Pakistanis, but indicates that "They [Pakistanis] are familiar with our laws."
--Judith Miller, "US Cites Pakistani Pledge not to Make Atom Arms," New York Times, 25 June 1981, Section A, Pg. 6, Col. 3, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 25 June 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

28 June 1981
The Turkish government asserts that it does not intend to develop nuclear weapons nor assist other countries in developing such weapons. In a statement issued by the Turkish embassy in the United States, the Turkish government indicates that it will look into the allegations of Turkish firms' involvement in sending electric equipment to Pakistan and undertake necessary action as per the obligations of the nuclear nonproliferation treaty. The statement indicates that the involvement of Turkish firms in sending sensitive nuclear equipment to Pakistan has been brought to the attention of the Turkish government for the first time.
--Barry Schweid, "Turkey says it won't Help in Development of Nuclear Weapons," Associated Press, 28 June 1981, Washington Deadline; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 28 June 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

1 July 1981
A West German engineering firm, Ces Kalthof, says that it sold Pakistan equipment for making uranium-hexafluoride, a material that could be used to make nuclear fuel. Albrecht Migule, the firm's Director, denies a news report in the German magazine Stern that the laboratory equipment could be used to make nuclear weapons.
--"Sale to Pakistan Questioned," Washington Post, 1 July 1981, First Section, Around the World, A20; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 1 July 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

2 July 1981
Pakistan is planning to spend $56 million on a number of projects for the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) for the current fiscal year that began on July 1. According to the Public Sector Development Plan, the funds are allocated mainly for a reprocessing plant, a nuclear power plant, detailed exploration for uranium and, for phase two of a radioactive minerals survey. The plan allocates $40 million for the reprocessing plant and $10 million for the second nuclear power plant. The budget document indicates that last year's funds for the reprocessing plant are lying unused. The work on the second nuclear power plant is 3% complete and is expected to gather momentum during this year. The budget plan indicates that $59 million will be allotted for the nuclear power plant for the next fiscal year. The total cost of the nuclear power plant is now revised to $910 million, from the original estimate of $527 million. According to a plan approved by the government in 1976, the first nuclear power plant was planned to be commissioned by 1982. The first nuclear power plant could not be commissioned owing to financial constraints.
--"Pakistan Plans to Spend $56 million during the Current Fiscal Year," Nucleonics Week, 2 July 1981, Vol. 22, No. 26, Pg. 5; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 2 July 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

2 July 1981
A Pakistani foreign ministry spokesperson denies that Pakistan has received any electronic equipment from Turkey. The spokesperson points out that US news reports indicating Pakistan's development of nuclear weapons are unfounded and insists that Pakistan's nuclear program is aimed for peaceful purposes. The spokesperson also points out that the Turkish government has denied the news reports.
--"Pakistan Denies Developing Nuclear Weapons," Xinhua General Overseas News Service, 3 July 1981; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 2 July 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

2 July 1981
Pakistan's President Zia ul-Haq orders tight security measures to guard Pakistan's nuclear installations following Israel's air-strikes against Iraq's nuclear reactor. The Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), Munir Ahmad Khan, says that the steps are taken to guard against possible subversive activities and sabotage attempts on Pakistani nuclear projects. Mr. Khan also states that any outside attacks on Pakistan's nuclear installations will be successfully thwarted. Mr. Khan does not provide information on the security measures that have been initiated.
--United Press International, 3 July 1981, International; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 3 July 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

9 July 1981
The Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic energy Commission (PAEC), Munir Ahmad Khan, says that nations should develop breeder reactors to avoid future shortage of uranium and future escalation in uranium prices. Mr. Khan tells the participants of a conference organized under the PAEC that "if we go on building light water reactors, we will soon feel the pinch, because uranium would not be available at cheap prices after a decade." According to Mr. Khan, a feasibility study for a 600-MW nuclear power plant at Chashma has been completed and the plant is expected to be commissioned by 1988. Mr. Khan also informs that eight other plants will be built at the site in Chashma. Mr. Khan says that development of nuclear power will help Pakistan to reduce the huge costs associated with importing oil for its energy needs. Mr. Khan warns that transfer of technology is becoming a political issue and says that developing nations will not find it way to obtain technology from other developed countries.
--"The Pakistan AEC Chairman said Breeder Development is Necessary," Nucleonics Week, 9 July 1981, Vol. 22, No. 27, Pg. 8; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 9 July 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

20 July 1981
The German engineering firm Ces Kalthof is facing charges of violating West German Foreign Trade Act by shipping a plant capable of producing uranium-hexafluoride to Pakistan. In responding to a Parliamentary question, the German government says that the delivery of the plant required an export license which would not have been granted by the government. The question regarding the deal is raised in the parliament after a German magazine Der Stern announces that it possesses contracts and other documents regarding the deals between the German firm and a Pakistani textile company. A spokesperson for the German Economics Ministry says that German authorities have collected enough evidence to charge the German firm with violating the German Foreign Trade Act. The spokesperson says that investigations were being carried out since early 1981 long before the firm's activities were published in the German magazine Der Stern. The outcome of the investigation will determine if the firm will be tried in a court or be handled by tax authorities.
--"German Firm Cited in Case Involving Sale of Fluoride Conversion Plant to Pakistan," Nuclear Fuel, 20 July 1981, Vol. 6, No. 15, Pg. 3; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 July 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

9 August 1981
Libya's Secretary for Foreign Affairs Dr Ali Abd as-Salam ai-Turayki calls for assisting Pakistan's nuclear program or the nuclear program of any other Arab or Islamic country since it will benefit the common cause of Islamic nations. Mr. Turayki, in a statement to the paper Al-Khalij, states that assisting the efforts of Pakistan or any other Islamic nation in producing an atomic bomb will aid the Palestinian cause.
--"In Brief: General; Turayki's Remarks about an Islamic Nuclear Bomb," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 11 August 1981, Part 4. The Middle East and Africa, A. The Middle East, ME/6798/A/11; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 11 August 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

10 August 1981
A radio report from Qatar reporting a meeting between Libya's Foreign Liaison Secretary Turayki and the Qatar Finance and Oil Minister announces that Dr. Turayki has denied calling for the production of an Islamic bomb. According to the report, Dr. Turayki also insists on the peaceful nature of Libya's nuclear energy program.
--"Libya and the Islamic Bomb," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 12 August 1981, Part 4. The Middle East and Africa, IV(A) - The Middle East, ME/6799/1; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 12 August 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

6 September 1981
Western sources indicate that Pakistan's uranium enrichment plant, located 30 miles southeast of Islamabad at Kahuta, is expected to start operating by the end of this year. The plant uses gas centrifuge technology allegedly stolen from the Netherlands.
--Manchester Guardian Weekly, 6 September 1981, The Week, Pg. 6; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 September 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

15 September 1981
The government of Pakistan formally accepts a six-year $3.2 billion military and economic assistance package offered by the United States. Pakistan accepts the offer after the United States proposes a plan for the speedy delivery of the F-16 fighter aircraft. The F-16 fighter aircraft offer is not part of the $3.2 billion economic and military assistance package. Pakistan agrees to pay $1.1 billion in cash for the 40 F-16 fighter aircraft. Saudi Arabia promises to assist Pakistan in paying for the planes.
--Bernard Gwertzman, "Pakistan Agrees to a US Aid Plan and F-16 Delivery," New York Times, 16 September 1981, Section A, Pg. 1, Col. 1, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 September 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

16 September 1981
US Under-Secretary of State James Buckley, in his testimony to the three panels of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, urges the Congress to remove a ban on aid to Pakistan in order to proceed with the six-year $3.2 billion aid package. Buckley says that Pakistan's President Zia ul-Haq has categorically assured the United States that Pakistan does not intend to acquire nuclear weapons. Buckley, however, states that "I do believe that they have the present intention of moving forward with their nuclear development program. It could very well lead to the development of the so-called nuclear option." Nonetheless, Pakistani leaders are aware that conducting any nuclear test will lead to the cancellation of the aid package. In this regard, Buckley refuses to clearly state that the United States will cut off aid if Pakistan explodes a nuclear device. The Director of the Defense Security Assistance Agency Erich F. von Marbod says that the nuclear capabilities of the F-16s will be removed before their shipment to Pakistan. Marbod says that "All wiring to the pylons, all computer software programs that manage the hardware stores and all cockpit controls that are nuclear related" will be removed from the aircraft prior to the delivery. Marbod further states that the defense department can furnish written assurances that the equipment to provide nuclear capability will not be provided to Pakistan in the future.
--Juan J. Walte, United press International, 17 September 1981, Washington News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 17 September 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com; Bernard Gwertzman, "Pakistan Blast Could End Aid," New York Times, 17 September 1981, Section A, Pg. 1, Col. 1, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 17 September 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com; "US will Sell Pakistanis F-16s Attack Helicopters," Aviation Week & Space Technology, 21 September 1981, Pg. 23; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 17 September 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

17 September 1981
The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Sigvard Eklund, in a private meeting with the 34 member IAEA Board of Governors, indicates that existing safeguards mechanisms at the KANUPP facility are not adequate to ensure effective surveillance of the facility. Eklund informs the board that the existing IAEA inspections cannot certify that diversions have not occurred at the KANUPP facility due to Pakistan's ability to produce its own nuclear fuel. Currently, IAEA inspectors visit the facility once every month. Eklund promises a report on the issue in two months.
--Judith Miller, "US Aides Studying Pakistani Reactor," New York Times, 30 September 1981, Section A, Pg. 3, Col. 1, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 30 September 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com; "IAEA is Facing Major Problems in Safeguarding Pakistan's KANUPP Power," Nucleonics Week, 8 October 1981, Vol. 22, No. 40, Pg. 6; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 October 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com; David K. Willis, "On the Trail of the A-Bomb Makers; Antinuclear battle Nears Climax," Christian Science Monitor (Boston), 1 December 1981, Pg. 1; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 1 December 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

21 September 1981
Pakistan's President Zia ul-Haq reiterates that Pakistan will not produce or acquire a nuclear bomb. However, he states that Pakistan will not surrender its right to possess nuclear technology.
--"American Arms to Pakistan: "A Test of US Credibility," US News and World Report, 21 September 1981, Pg. 45; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 September 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

Fourth Week of September
US Administration officials inform the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, Senator Charles H. Percy (R-Il) about Pakistan's development of indigenous nuclear fuel and IAEA's reservations about the adequacy of the existing safeguards mechanisms.
--Judith Miller, "US Aides Studying Pakistani Reactor," New York Times, 30 September 1981, Section A, Pg. 3, Col. 1, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 30 September 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

24 September 1981
A western nuclear source reveals that 12 Spanish engineers are under a one-year contract to design a 900 MW nuclear power plant at Chashma in the Mianwali district of Punjab. International tenders were invited for the contract but US firms were not allowed to participate since they were considered unreliable. According to a Spanish source, quoted by a western source, Saudi Arabia is believed to be financing the nuclear plant, which is expected to cost about $1.1 billion. The plant will be constructed and financed over an eight-year period.
--"Twelve Spanish Engineers are Under a One-Year Contract with Pakistan," Nucleonics Week, 24 September 1981, Vol. 22, No. 38, Pg. 3; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 September 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

25 September 1981
Senator Alan Cranston (D-Ca) charges that the Reagan administration withheld information on Pakistan's progress towards developing nuclear weapons. Cranston says that Pakistan has started to use domestically produced fuel for its Karachi Nuclear Power Plant (KANUPP) reactor and states that Pakistan can now produce weapons-grade plutonium without being detected by international monitors. According to Cranston, Pakistan's fuel fabrication plant is not under international safeguards. According to Sigvard Eklund, Director General of the IAEA, Pakistan's use of indigenous nuclear fuel will make effective surveillance "impossible" to achieve. Cranston indicates that his information has been verified with three executive branch entities. US Senate aides also suggest that Pakistan only needs to develop a warhead capability. The director of the US State Department's Intelligence and Research Bureau confirms that Pakistan is manufacturing nuclear fuel at the Canadian-supplied Karachi reactor, but indicates that he does not know why Congress was not informed by the Reagan administration. Spiers adds that the IAEA did not find any safeguards violations in Pakistan and that all nuclear materials have been accounted by the IAEA. Senator Charles H. Percy (R-Il) indicates that he was informed recently by the Administration about Pakistan's ability to produce its own fuel. Senator John Glenn (D-OH) states that he will introduce three amendments to strengthen US nonproliferation laws. According to Sen. Glenn, one of the amendments would require a cut-off of aid, without a presidential waiver, to India and Pakistan in case either of the countries detonates a nuclear device.
--Bill Peterson, "Senator Alleges White House Held Crucial Pakistan Data," Washington Post, 26 September 1981, First Section, A14; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 26 September 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com; Judith Miller, "Pakistanis said to Produce Own Reactor Fuel," New York Times, 26 September 1981, Section 1, Pg. 3, Col. 1, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 26 September 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

September 1981
US government's arms control and intelligence officials along with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors are closely examining Pakistan's Karachi Nuclear Power Reactor (KANUPP) reactor to comprehend "suspicious" activities at the reactor facility. Over the past several months, a series of "anomalies" and "irregularities" at the facility, including a high rate of failure of the surveillance equipment and problems in the accounting procedures for the spent fuel, has led to calls from the IAEA to improve the safeguards at the facility. According to Congressional and US arms control officials, the IAEA's concerns arise from the fact that Pakistan can produce its own nuclear fuel for the KANUPP reactor. The design of the Canadian supplied Canadian Deuterium Uranium (CANDU) reactor facilitates loading and unloading of the fuel rods without shutting down the entire reactor. As a result, Pakistan can easily divert the fuel from the reactor in the absence of stringent inspections. IAEA officials, after monitoring the installation of 75 bundles of domestically produced fuel bundles, became convinced that additional surveillance is needed to ensure that fuel is not diverted from the reactor or the cooling ponds. The KANUPP reactor can hold about 2,000 fuel rods. IAEA Director-General Sigvard Eklund urged Pakistan to install surveillance equipment at two additional locations. Pakistan, however, has refused to negotiate any improved safeguards for the KANUPP facility indicating that such a measure would amount to a virtual renegotiation of the original contract with Canada. Even though Pakistan is not a signatory to the NPT, Canada insisted on implementing safeguards for the supply of the KANUPP reactor. The irregularities at the KANUPP facility lead to speculation among US and IAEA officials that Pakistan is diverting fuel for non-peaceful purposes. US officials, however, point to a lack of definite proof of such diversion. The IAEA's doubts over the facility have led US officials to increase their efforts to gather information on the facility through intelligence channels.
--Judith Miller, "US Aides Studying Pakistani Reactor," New York Times, 30 September 1981, Section A, Pg. 3, Col. 1, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 30 September 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

September 1981
The three Canadian men, caught while exporting electronic equipment to Pakistan, face charges in a Quebec criminal court. After two weeks of closed hearings, the case is adjourned till January 18 1982. Eleven of those charges are for exporting goods without a license and 14 of the charges are for exporting goods from the United States without adding value. Canadian sources indicate that the case took a long time to reach this stage since the documents found in the Serabit offices were in Punjabi and had to be translated into English. The firm Serabit is owned by Salam Elmenyawi, one of the three Canadians caught last year.
--David K. Willis, "On the Trail of the A-Bomb Makers; Antinuclear battle Nears Climax," Christian Science Monitor (Boston), 1 December 1981, Pg. 1; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 1 December 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

8 October 1981
A well-informed source reveals that Pakistan will accept bids for a 600-900 MW nuclear power plant at the Chashma site in the first half of 1982. Sener, a Spanish firm based in Bilbao, Spain is currently conducting a study of the existing light water reactors (LWRs) for the Pakistan Atomic Energy Agency (PAEC). The Spanish firm Sener is either preparing report for a 600 or a 900 MW reactor and for whether a turnkey or NSSS-only solicitation of bids. According to sources, Sener will probably manage the procurement of a nuclear unit for Pakistan even though the firm will not purchase components for the nuclear unit in foreign countries and re-route them to Pakistan. A source indicates that relations between Sener and the Pakistanis is "clean" and indicates that the firm is very much aware of Pakistan's controversial nuclear program.
--"Pakistan Could be ready to Accept Bids for a," Nucleonics Week, 8 October 1981, Vol. 22, No. 40, Pg. 2; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 October 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com

12 - 13 October 1981
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors visit the Karachi Nuclear Power Plant (KANUPP) and request to move the two surveillance cameras. The inspectors also request Pakistan to install "bundle counters" to ensure better surveillance of the facility. Pakistan refuses to comply with the demands.
--David K. Willis, "On the Trail of the A-Bomb Makers; Antinuclear battle Nears Climax," Christian Science Monitor (Boston), 1 December 1981, Pg. 1; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 1 December 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

19 October 1981
Contrary to the statements issued by the Reagan administration officials, Western diplomats and other informed sources indicate that Pakistan is moving forward with its nuclear program and is likely to explode a nuclear device in the near future. A Western diplomatic source indicated that Pakistan currently does not possess the capability to explode a nuclear device but could manage to acquire such a capability in two years.
--Walter W. Miller, "Pakistan Pushing Ahead with Nuclear Program," United Press International, 21 October 1981, International; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 October 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

20 October 1981
The Senate adopts by voice votes two amendments to the Foreign Aid Bill. Both the amendments are introduced by Senator John Glenn (D-OH). The first amendment requires an annual report from the president on Pakistan's nuclear activity as a condition for the renewal of the aid program. The second amendment places a limit on any waiver extended to Pakistan to a period of six years. A third amendment to be introduced by Senator Glenn tomorrow requires an immediate termination of aid to Pakistan if it conducts a nuclear test.
--Barbara Crossette, "Strings are Attached by Senators to Aid going to Pakistanis," New York Times, 21 October 1981, Section A, Pg. 9, Col. 1, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 October 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

21 October 1981
The Senate approves an amendment introduced by Senator John Glenn (D-OH) by a vote of 51-45. The Glenn amendment requires suspension of foreign aid to Pakistan or India if they conduct a nuclear test. Later, Senator Jesse Helms (R-NC) introduces an amendment that requires the US government to cut off aid to any non-nuclear country that conducts a nuclear test and Sen. Helms' amendment is passed by a voice vote. The Helms amendment affects US allies like Israel, Taiwan, and South Africa.
--William Chapman, "Senate Bars Aid to New Members of Nuclear Club; Senate would Link Aid to Nonproliferation," Washington Post, 22 October 1981, First Section, A1; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 October 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

22 October 1981
The Senate adopts the 1982 Foreign Assistance Bill by a 40-33 vote. The $5.7 billion package includes a $3.2 billion aid package to Pakistan. The aid to Pakistan is provided by waiving the Symington Amendment to the 1961 Foreign Assistance Act that requires a presidential certification that a nation with nuclear facilities is not producing nuclear weapons. The Reagan administration requested the Senate to waive the Symington amendment for Pakistan since President Reagan was not able to provide the necessary certification.
--Barbara Crossette, 'Senate Ties Aid to Atom Arms," New York Times, 22 October 1981, Section A, Pg. 3, Col. 2, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 October 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com; Barbara Crosette, "Senate Approves '82 Foreign Assistance Bill, 40-33," New York Times, 23 October 1981, Section A, Pg. 9, Col. 1, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 23 October 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

31 October 1981
A 5,000 lb shipment of zirconium metal worth $153, 000 is seized at the Kennedy International Airport prior to its loading onto a passenger plane. Zirconium is used in construction of nuclear reactors and its export requires an export license. The zirconium shipment is labeled as mountain-climbing equipment and the passenger accompanying the shipment is Dr. Sarfaz Mir, a retired Pakistani Army officer, and is believed to be a close friend of Pakistan's President Zia ul-Haq. After the seizure of the shipment, US Customs officials search the Pakistan Airlines flight to locate Dr. Mir but are unable to locate him. The Assistant General Manager of Pakistan Airlines says that he will investigate the issue. Agents from the compliance division of the Commerce Department's Office of Export Administration, headed by Sharon R. Connelly, had tracked the shipment from its production plant in Oregon to the Kennedy Airport. Pakistan Airlines officials are questioned about the shipment since it was too heavy to be classified as check-in baggage.
--Leslie Maitland, "US Studying Foiled Bid to Export a Key Reactor Metal to Pakistan," New York Times, 20 November 1981, Section A, Pg. 1, Col. 1, Metropolitan Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 November 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

10 November 1981
Pakistan's Ambassador to the United Nations Niaz A. Naik says that operations at the Karachi Nuclear Power Plant's (KANUPP) maintenance area for the fueling machine cannot be upset by having extra surveillance. The Ambassador, however, objects to the installation of an extra camera at the spent fuel bay.
--David K. Willis, "On the Trail of the A-Bomb Makers; Antinuclear battle Nears Climax," Christian Science Monitor (Boston), 1 December 1981, Pg. 1; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 1 December 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

17 November 1981
The Senate Foreign Relations Committee votes 10-7 to approve the sale of F-16 warplanes to Pakistan. Similarly, two House Foreign Subcommittees voted 10-5 to approve the sale. Under-Secretary of State James L. Buckley, in his testimony, says that the cancellation of the sale of F-16s to Pakistan will severely affect improvement of relations between Pakistan and the United States. Under-Secretary Buckley also says that the United States will continue its efforts to halt Pakistan's nuclear program by stopping the sale of nuclear equipment and technology by nuclear-supplier countries. Under-Secretary Buckley opposed the Senate amendment that called for suspension of aid to Pakistan if it exploded a nuclear device. Under-Secretary Buckley said that "It is difficult to see how the United States could go forward with an assistance program for Pakistan under such circumstances." A senior State Department official says that Pakistan needs more than a year to acquire the nuclear materials to conduct a nuclear test.
--Don Oberdorfer, "Votes Stall Effort to Block Sale; Hill Panels back F16s for Pakistan," Washington Post, 18 November 1981, First Section, World/National News, A28; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 18 November 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

19 November 1981
The House Foreign Affairs Committee rejects a resolution opposing the sale of 40 F-16 aircraft to Pakistan. The voting session resulted in a 13-13 tie, which is considered a defeat under Congressional rules.
--Barbara Crossette, "Pakistan Jet Deal backed by Panel," New York Times, 20 November 1981, Section A, Pg. 3, Col. 1, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 18 November 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

21 November 1981
The Commerce Department rules that the Manhattan-based exporter Albert A. Goldberg and the Pakistani company S.J. Enterprises cannot export goods until the charges against them involving the shipment of zirconium are resolved. Mr. Goldberg and several of his companies are charged with violating export regulations by attempting to export zirconium to Pakistan. The Pakistani company S.J. Enterprises is penalized for attempting to procure zirconium in the United States and export the metal to Pakistan. The shipment of zirconium was seized by US officials at the Kennedy Airport on October 31.
--"Charges made in Export Case," New York Times, 21 November 1981, Section 2, Pg. 30, Col. 5, Metropolitan Desk; Leslie Maitland, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 November 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

24 November 1981
Pakistan's President Zia ul-Haq, when asked to comment on reports on Pakistan's efforts to build an Islamic bomb, says that "we are proud to say that Pakistan can make the bomb ... they think that if we lay our hands on this toy we might use it irresponsibly." President Haq comments that developing countries need to possess nuclear technology and he says that Pakistan is determined to acquire nuclear technology.
--"Other Reports on Korea; Turkish Leader's Visit to Pakistan," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 26 November 1981, part 3. The Far East, A. International Affairs, 4. The Middle East, FE/6890/A4/1; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 26 November 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

25 November 1981
A Pakistani official statement issued in Islamabad states that President Zia ul-Haq's answer to a question on the Islamic bomb has been misinterpreted by several foreign media organizations. The statement clarifies that the President's statement that Pakistan has the right to acquire nuclear technology has been misinterpreted as indicating that Pakistan intends to make an atomic bomb. The statement says that the President was responding to a question on published reports about the Islamic bomb; and had categorized such reports as propaganda spread by hostile powers.
--"Turkish Leader's Visit to Pakistan; Pakistan Denies it Intends to make Bomb," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 27 November 1981, Part 3. The Far East, A. International Affairs, 4. The Middle East, FE/6891/A4/1; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 27 November 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

November 1981
US officials investigate the seizure of a shipment of zirconium metal at Kennedy Airport. The exporter of the shipment is Albert A. Goldberg of the Manhattan-based National Tronics Company. The shipment is bought by Dr. Sarfaz Mir, a retired Pakistani Army officer who owns a firm S.J. Enterprises in Pakistan. The zirconium metal is manufactured by Oregon-based Teledyne Wah Chang. The Commerce Department, the Customs Services, and the office of Edward R. Korman, US Attorney for the Eastern District of New York are investigating the specific roles of Mr. Goldberg and Dr. Mir. Mir is believed to have left the United States after US Customs officials failed to find him on the Pakistan Airlines flight when the shipment was captured. Mr. Goldberg did not apply for an export license for the shipment and states that he is not aware of such a procedure for shipping the metal. Mr. Goldberg says that the shipment was ordered by the Government of Pakistan through Dr. Mir. Mr. Goldberg says that he has previously shipped electrical capacitors to the Pakistani government after acquiring the necessary export clearances. Sharon R. Connelly, head of the compliance division of the Commerce Department's Office of Export Administration, comments that a license to export zirconium to Pakistan would have been rejected since Pakistan is not qualified to obtain such material. US authorities are deciding on presenting the issue to a Federal grand jury or to deal with the issue within the Commerce Department which might lead to the imposition of civil sanctions including fines and withdrawal of exporting rights. Mr. Goldberg has been penalized twice before for irregularities in exporting controlled items and had his export right revoked for three years in 1976. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission states that 50,000 lbs of zirconium is needed for a reactor and states that the 5,000 lbs of zirconium is not sufficient for a reactor. Dr. Charles Till, Associate Director for reactor research and development at the Argonne National Laboratory, says that zirconium is used to make tubes for holding uranium fuel. James Barrett, spokesperson for Teledyne Wah Chang, indicates that zirconium is used in several applications including aircraft and submarines. James Benham, a lawyer for Teledyne Wah Chang, refuses to comment on reports that Teledyne Wah Chang had alerted the Commerce Department about the zirconium shipment.
--Leslie Maitland, "US Studying Foiled Bid to Export a Key Reactor Metal to Pakistan," New York Times, 20 November 1981, Section A, Pg. 1, Col. 1, Metropolitan Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 November 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

November 1980
The Commissioner of Customs William von Raab announces the start of Operation Exodus. The operation is designed to control the flow of illegal technology from the United States. Raab says that teams of customs agents, inspectors, and patrol officers are being trained on the mission's objective.
--Leslie Maitland, "US Studying Foiled Bid to Export a Key Reactor Metal to Pakistan," New York Times, 20 November 1981, Section A, Pg. 1, Col. 1, Metropolitan Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 November 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

1 December 1981
Israeli sources indicate that the Kahuta enrichment plant in Pakistan is operating with 1,000 spinning metal "cascades" or cylinders. The United States and other sources, however, believe that Pakistan's enrichment effort to be less advanced and point out to the long periods of time needed by West Germany, the Netherlands, and Britain to master the enrichment technology. A well-placed Indian diplomat reveals that "we have evidence of short burns at KANUPP now." Ever since Pakistan announced in September 1980 that it could produce nuclear fuel indigenously, arms control officials have feared that Pakistan can use its own fuel, irradiate it for a short period of time in the Canadian supplied Karachi Nuclear Power Plant (KANUPP) reactor, withdraw it, and reprocess the spent fuel rods to extract plutonium. Dr Munir Ahmad Khan of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) however, denies any such short irradiation of fuel rods.
--David K. Willis, "On the Trail of the A-Bomb Makers; Antinuclear battle Nears Climax," Christian Science Monitor (Boston), 1 December 1981, Pg. 1; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 1 December 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

8 December 1981
According to latest Western intelligence estimates, Pakistan can conduct a nuclear explosion by the end of next year. Earlier reports that Pakistan will conduct a nuclear test in fall 1981 are now considered premature. Pakistan is considered to be two years from conducting a nuclear test and report suggest that the nuclear program has run into unexpected technical problems.
--Stuart Auerbach, "US Aid as Deterrent; Potential seen for Pakistan A-Blast by '82," Washington Post, 8 December 1981, First Section, A17; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 December 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

8 December 1981
The House Foreign Affairs Committee votes to provide Congress with greater powers to reject aid to countries believed to be developing nuclear weapons. An amendment to the foreign aid authorization bill, sponsored by Rep. Stephen J. Solarz (D-NY) would allow the Congress to override a Presidential waiver to the Symington amendment by a concurrent resolution that only requires simple majorities. The proposed amendment cannot be cancelled by a presidential veto.
--William Chapman, "Reagan, Haig ask Bipartisan Support on Foreign Aid," Washington Post, 9 December 1981, First Section, A10; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 9 December 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

14 December 1981
The House-Senate conference approves the $11.4 billion foreign aid bill. The bill includes $100 million in economic assistance to Pakistan. The aid is permissible after a waiver of the required Presidential assurance that Pakistan is not participating in the transfer or receipt of a nuclear device, or a detonation of a nuclear device. The Presidential waiver expires after 30 days, after which the Congressional action is needed to extend it further. A second waiver allowing the President to declare that Pakistan is not involved in the receipt or transfer of equipment for uranium enrichment is subject to Congressional veto by both Houses.
--Martin Tolchin, "House-Senate Conferees Approve Foreign Aid Bill," New York Times, 15 December 1981, Section A, Pg. 29, Col. 1, National Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 15 December 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

17 December 1981
Speaking at his first press conference, the new Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Hans Blix says that some positive developments can be expected with regard to negotiations for increasing the safeguards mechanisms at the Karachi Nuclear Power Plant (KANUPP) in Pakistan. Director-General Blix says that "The negotiations with Pakistan are continuing, but it is just one of several countries we would like to see improvements in."
--Lynne Reaves, "The new Director General of the IAEA says all Member Nations Must," Nucleonics Week, 17 December 1981, Vol. 22, No. 50, Pg. 9; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 17 December 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

27 December 1981 - 2 January 1982
Saudi Arabia's Minister of petroleum & Mineral Wealth Ahmad Zaki Yamani visits Pakistan. During the visit, Pakistan discusses the financing of a 600 MW nuclear power plant with Mr. Yamani. A two-day hunting trip by Yamani to Kalabagh, close to the proposed site for the nuclear power plant raises doubts that he visited the nuclear power plant now under construction. At the conclusion of the trip, Yamani promises that Saudi Arabia will finance any energy related projects in Pakistan.
--"There are String Indications that Pakistan, Facing the Worst Power Shortage," Nucleonics Week, 14 January 1982, Vol. 23, No. 2, Pg. 10; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 14 January 1982, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

December 1981 - January 1982
Pakistan agrees to implement certain additional surveillance measures requested by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) at its Karachi Nuclear Power Plant (KANUPP) reactor. Pakistan agrees to the relocation of some cameras at the facility. However, Pakistan refuses to install additional equipment at the facility, especially bundle counters. The bundle counters can be used to track the flow of fuel bundles in and out of the reactor. Recently, the IAEA has indicated its inability to verify the number of bundles at the plant.
--"Pakistan has Agreed to some Upgraded Safeguards Measures, but the Larger," Nucleonics Week, 7 January 1982, Vol. 23, No. 1, Pg. 2; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 7 January 1982, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

December 1981
Pakistan concedes to certain demands made by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) regarding surveillance at the Karachi Nuclear Power Plant (KANUPP). Pakistan agrees to the application of silica gel treatment on the surveillance cameras in order to enable them to withstand the high heat and humidity at Paradise Point (the location of the KANUPP facility). Pakistan also agrees to install extra dosimeters that are used to measure gamma radiation and installs a closed-circuit video camera system surrounding the spent-fuel bay. In addition, it also agrees to allow more number of inspections. Pakistan, however, has only agreed to talk regarding IAEA's other key demands, namely, installing extra 8mm cameras, relocating cameras to different positions, installing bundle counters, and increased number of inspections. Pakistan still insists that developed film from the surveillance cameras will not be allowed to be taken out of the country for fear of revealing industrial secrets. Pakistan also indicates that spent fuel rods will not be arranged according to the IAEA's demands. Pakistan says that the issue of bundle counters will be analyzed "in the light of our agreements with the agency [IAEA]."
--David K. Willis, "On the Trail of the A-Bomb Makers; Antinuclear battle Nears Climax," Christian Science Monitor (Boston), 1 December 1981, Pg. 1; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 1 December 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

December 1981
Western sources believe that Pakistan is using the Fauji chain of nonprofit import enterprises to clandestinely buy sensitive nuclear equipment from foreign countries.
--David K. Willis, "On the Trail of the A-Bomb Makers; Antinuclear battle Nears Climax," Christian Science Monitor (Boston), 1 December 1981, Pg. 1; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 1 December 1981, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

December 1981
The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) prepares an analysis titled 'Special National Intelligence Estimate 31-81" and concludes that Pakistan will possess the ability to test a nuclear device within the next three years. The analysis describes that Pakistan is partly deterred from conducting a nuclear test by President Reagan's military and economic package which will be withdrawn once Pakistan tests a nuclear device. The analysis predicts that Pakistan will not stop its efforts to develop and stockpile fissile material for a nuclear device. Such efforts by Pakistan, according to the report, will increase the risk of a pre-emptive strike by India against Pakistan's nuclear installations.
--Judith Miller, "US Says Pakistan's Nuclear Potential is Growing," New York Times, 24 January 1982, Section 1, part 1, Pg. 6, Col. 1, Foreign Desk; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 January 1982, http://www.lexisnexis.com.

	Updated March 2006