India tested the naval version of its Prithvi-III nuclear-capable ballistic missile, which has a range of 250 to 300 kilometres (156 to 188 miles).

Foreign office spokesman Masood Khan told AFP Islamabad had noted the missile test and had prior information about it through Pakistan's mission in New Delhi.

He said Pakistan had also conducted similar tests to validate the technical parameters of its arsenal.

Khan said Pakistan and India were committed to working towards strategic stability in the region and a meeting of the two nations' nuclear experts was scheduled for December 14-15 in Islamabad.

"We do not favour an open-ended arms race in South Asia. We believe that a strategic restraint is in the interest of both nations," Khan said.

Pakistan conducted its last missile test on October 12 when it fired a Hatf V or Ghauri missile with a range of 1,500 kilometres. It was the country's fourth missile test this year.

Nuclear-capable India and Pakistan, which have fought three wars, routinely carry out missile tests.

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