WASHINGTON – The United States has imposed sanction on for entities for their alleged involvement in Pakistan’s long-range missile development programme.
The US state Department claimed that the action has been taken in light of the continuing proliferation threat of Pakistan’s long-range missile development.
“The National Development Complex (NDC), located in Islamabad, Pakistan, has worked to acquire items in furtherance of Pakistan’s long range ballistic missile program – including special vehicle chassis intended to be used as launch support equipment for ballistic missiles and missile testing equipment. The United States assesses NDC is responsible for Pakistan’s development of ballistic missiles, including the SHAHEEN-series ballistic missiles,” read the official statement of the State Department.
It has also imposed sanctions on Karachi-based Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, Affiliates International and Rockside Enterprise for supplying range of equipment.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has rejected the sanction imposed by the US on National Development Complex (NDC) and three commercial entities as unfortunate and biased.
Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, in a statement, said Pakistan’s strategic capabilities are meant to defend its sovereignty and preserve peace and stability in South Asia.
The latest installment of sanctions defies the objective of peace and security by aiming to accentuate military asymmetries. Such policies have dangerous implications for strategic stability of our region and beyond.
“Pakistan’s strategic programme is a sacred trust bestowed by 240 million people upon its leadership. The sanctity of this trust, held in the highest esteem across the entire political spectrum, cannot be compromised,” she said.
“We also regret the imposition of sanctions on private commercial entities. Similar listings of commercial entities in the past were based on mere doubts and suspicion without any evidence whatsoever. While claiming strict adherence to non-proliferation norms, licensing requirement for advanced military technology to other countries have been waived off in the past.”
Such double standards and discriminatory practices not only undermine the credibility of non-proliferation regimes but also endanger regional and international peace and security.
