ISLAMABAD; Pakistan says India's new nuclear-powered submarine is "detrimental" to the region's peace and stability and it will take "appropriate steps" in response.

The statement comes amid lingering tensions between the two nuclear powers over last year's terrorist attacks in Mumbai that India blames on Pakistani militants.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Abdul Basit says in the late Monday statement that Pakistan will take all "appropriate steps to safeguard its security" but will do so "without entering into an arms race with India."

India launched the submarine on Sunday. Analysts say it is capable of launching nuclear weapons. India says the project is key for its defense and does not threaten anyone.