US sanctions imposed on four companies related to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program
Efforts to reset relations between Pakistan and the United States
faced a setback as the US imposed sanctions on four international
companies—three Chinese and one Belarusian—accusing them of supplying equipment
for Pakistan’s ballistic missile program.
In a swift response, Islamabad rebuffed the move, asserting that
the "political manipulation of export controls" would only fuel an
arms race and disrupt the strategic balance.
The US Department of State sanctioned four entities under Section
1(a)(ii) of Executive Order 13382, aimed at curtailing the proliferation of
weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery.
Read More Pakistan
accuses India of violating agreement regarding missile tests
“These entities have supplied missile‐applicable items to Pakistan’s
ballistic missile program, including its long-range missile program,” read the
official statement issued in Washington.
The State Department provided a "fact sheet" justifying
the listing of the four entities. It alleged that the Belarus-based Minsk Wheel
Tractor Plant supplied special vehicle chassis to Pakistan’s long-range
ballistic missile program.
Similarly, Chinese entities Xi’an Longde Technology Development
Company Limited and Tianjin Creative Source International Trade Co Ltd were
accused of supplying missile-related equipment to Pakistan’s long-range
ballistic missile program. Granpect Company Limited, also based in China, was
implicated for supplying equipment for testing large-diameter rocket motors.
Read More IAF
admits BrahMos mishap damaged reputation, cost state 25 crore rupees
Reacting to the sanctions, the Foreign Office dismissed the US
decision, citing previous instances where commercial entities were listed on
allegations of links to Pakistan's ballistic missile program without evidence.
“We reject the political use of export controls. Such
discriminatory approaches and double standards are undermining the credibility
of non-proliferation regimes and also the objectives of regional and global
peace and security by accentuating military asymmetries,” said Mumtaz Zahra
Baloch, the foreign ministry spokesperson.
Read More Pakistan
test launches Ghauri Missile Weapon System
Observers note the US's maintained double standards in
non-proliferation efforts, especially regarding China's involvement in
Pakistan's missile program. The latest move comes shortly after US Ambassador
to Islamabad Donald Blome emphasized Pakistan’s "security and
prosperity" as a top US priority.
Defense experts emphasize Pakistan's commitment to its strategic
missile program amid evolving regional dynamics and US-India strategic ties.
Source: Express Tribune