New Delhi: India on November 15 rejected the new international code of conduct (ICOC) against ballistic missile proliferation, saying such regimes did not accommodate its core concerns and proved ineffective in preventing acquisition of nuclear weapon development through clandestine transfers and linkages.

''The final ICOC document refers to ballistic missile development and space launch vehicles without a proper distinction,'' an External Affairs Ministry spokesman told reporters in response to questions, adding, ''India cannot subscribe to it.''

''We find it difficult to accept an amalgamation of this nature and the implied questioning of the right to peaceful uses of space technology,'' he said.

The spokesman emphasised that India remained firmly opposed to the spread of ballistic missile technology and was committed to maintain effective export controls. ''We also stand for greater transparency and confidence-building in this regard,'' the spokesman said.

''As a first step, India believes that there should be greater transparency in policies and practices of countries in the area of ballistic missile technology,'' he stressed.

He recalled that India had shared the original aim of the ICOC sponsors about addressing the question of ballistic missile proliferation through greater transparency and inclusive multilateralism.

''Even as a first step, the ICOC lacks adequate flexibility to accommodate equitably the core concerns of India which is not a party to the existing discriminatory non- proliferation and technology denial regimes,'' he said.

PTI