Pakistan Criticizes US Sanctions on Its Commercial Entities as 'Unjust and Partial'
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Islamabad, Dec 19 (NationPress) Pakistan has vocally criticized the United States for its double standards and discriminatory practices. On Thursday, the country referred to the recent sanctions levied by the US administration on four of its entities associated with the ballistic missile program as unjust and partial.
The Pakistani foreign office in Islamabad emphasized that these strategic capabilities are essential for safeguarding its sovereignty.
"Pakistan views the US decision to impose sanctions on the National Development Complex (NDC) along with three commercial entities as unfortunate and biased. The strategic capabilities of Pakistan are designed to defend its sovereignty and promote peace and stability in South Asia," stated a release from Pakistan's foreign ministry.
"The most recent set of sanctions undermines the goal of peace and security by striving to amplify military disparities. Such actions pose serious risks to the strategic stability of our region and beyond. Pakistan's strategic program is a sacred trust entrusted to its leadership by 240 million citizens. The integrity of this trust, which is highly respected across the political landscape, cannot be compromised," it further elaborated.
Earlier that day, the US State Department had imposed sanctions on four Pakistani entities citing the 'ongoing proliferation threat' linked to the country's long-range missile development.
The sanctions targeted the Pakistan National Development Complex, responsible for the nation's ballistic missile program, along with Affiliates International, Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, and Rockside Enterprise. These firms have been involved in supplying equipment and missile-related items to Pakistan's missile program, including its long-range missile initiatives.
According to US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, the four entities were designated for having engaged in activities that materially contribute to or pose a risk of contributing to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, including their delivery systems (such as missiles capable of carrying such weapons). This includes efforts to manufacture, acquire, possess, develop, transport, transfer, or utilize such items by Pakistan.
In September 2023, the US government had also designated a Chinese research institute and several other companies, including some from Belarus, for their alleged support of Pakistan's ballistic missile program.
Nevertheless, Islamabad contends that the US sanctions are founded on mere assumptions and suspicions, lacking substantial evidence.
"We regret the sanctions imposed on private commercial entities. Previous listings of commercial entities were often based on mere doubts and suspicions without any concrete evidence. Despite claims of strict adherence to non-proliferation norms, licensing for advanced military technology to other countries has been overlooked in the past," the foreign office asserted on Thursday.
"These double standards and discriminatory practices not only diminish the credibility of non-proliferation regimes but also jeopardize regional and international peace and security," the statement concluded.
