The United States has imposed sanctions on three Chinese and one Belarusian company over their alleged involvement in supplying components for Pakistan’s ballistic missile program. The move is part of Washington’s efforts to deter activities that could contribute to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
Sanctioned Companies and Allegations
The sanctioned entities include Belarus’s Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant, and China’s Xi’an Longde Technology Development Company Ltd, Tianjin Creative Source International Trade Co Ltd, and Granpect Company Ltd. These companies are accused of supplying items, such as special vehicle chassis and equipment for missile production, to Pakistan’s missile program.
US State Department’s Statement
A US State Department spokesperson stated, “The United States is committed to preventing the spread of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery by disrupting procurement networks supporting proliferation activities of concern.” The statement highlighted the specific equipment and materials supplied for Pakistan’s missile programs.
Pakistan responded by stating that such actions had occurred in the past without substantial evidence being provided. The Pakistani foreign office emphasized that the items procured have legitimate civil commercial uses and called for discussions on end-use and end-user verification mechanisms to prevent discriminatory application of export controls.
US Commitment to Nonproliferation
The US reiterated its commitment to strengthening the global nonproliferation regime by disrupting procurement networks supporting proliferation activities. China, a major supplier of arms to Pakistan, has been closely involved in Islamabad’s military modernization efforts, including its missile programs.
Double Standards Allegation
Pakistan insinuated double standards in the imposition of such sanctions, pointing out that some jurisdictions, while claiming strict non-proliferation controls, have waived licensing requirements for advanced military technologies for certain countries, leading to an arms build-up.
The US sanctions on Chinese and Belarusian companies over alleged support for Pakistan’s missile program highlight ongoing tensions and complexities in global arms control efforts. The move underscores the importance of international cooperation and dialogue to address proliferation concerns and maintain peace and security.
