Islamabad, July 28 (DPA) Pakistan has accused India of threatening peace in South Asia by expanding its military arsenal.

'Continued induction of new lethal weapon systems by India is detrimental to regional peace and stability,' Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said late Monday.

The statement came a day after arch-rival India launched its first nuclear-powered submarine for sea trials.

The 6,000-ton INS Arihant, or Destroyer of Enemies, carries a crew of up to 95 and is armed with 12 ballistic missiles, each capable of carrying a 500-kg nuclear warhead to a target 750 kilometres away.

'Without entering into an arms race with India, Pakistan will take all appropriate steps to safeguard its security and maintain strategic balance in South Asia,' the ministry statement said.

'Pakistan believes that maintenance of strategic balance is essential for peace and security in South Asia.