Abdul Qadeer Khan Apologizes for Leakage of Pakistan's Nuclear Secrets to Iran, Libya, and North Korea - 2004-02-04

The founder of Pakistan's nuclear program appeared on television on Wednesday and personally apologized for the leakage of the country's nuclear secrets to Iran, Libya, and North Korea. Abdul Qadeer Khan absolved the government and other scientists of any responsibility in this matter and expressed his deep regret. This public confession came after his meeting with Pervez Musharraf, the President of Pakistan. The Pakistani government stated that Abdul Qadeer Khan requested leniency from President Musharraf. The leader of Pakistan later met with officials from the National Command Authority, which controls the country's nuclear facilities, to discuss whether Khan should be pardoned or not. Officials say the council has referred the matter to the federal cabinet. The cabinet is set to convene on Thursday to make a final decision. Abdul Qadeer Khan headed the main nuclear research laboratory in Pakistan from the 1970s until his retirement in 2001. The statement adds that the President will consult with senior security officials in the country before making a final decision regarding Abdul Qadeer Khan's request.