Pakistan has strongly criticized recent sanctions imposed by the United States on its National Development Complex (NDC) and three private commercial entities. The sanctions, announced under Executive Order 13382, target organizations allegedly contributing to the proliferation and delivery of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs). Pakistan has termed these sanctions as “unfortunate and biased,” asserting that such measures undermine regional and international peace.
Details of Sanctions
The US Department of State has sanctioned the following Pakistani entities:
- National Development Complex (NDC): Allegedly responsible for developing Pakistan’s ballistic missile systems, including the Shaheen-series missiles.
- Affiliates International (Karachi): Facilitating missile-related procurement for NDC.
- Akhtar and Sons Private Limited (Karachi): Supplying equipment to support Pakistan’s ballistic missile program.
- Rockside Enterprise (Karachi): Assisting in providing materials for missile development.
The US claims these entities have played a critical role in advancing Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile capabilities, which it views as a proliferation threat.
Pakistan’s Response
Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) issued a strongly worded statement rejecting the US sanctions:
- Defense and Peacekeeping Intentions: Pakistan emphasized that its strategic capabilities aim to defend national sovereignty and maintain peace and stability in South Asia.
- Accusations of Bias: The FO criticized the sanctions as discriminatory, claiming they are based on suspicions without evidence.
- Strategic Trust: Pakistan described its missile program as a “sacred trust” held in high regard by the nation.
- Double Standards: The FO highlighted instances where the US waived licensing requirements for advanced military technology to other nations while targeting Pakistan.
The FO warned that such policies exacerbate military asymmetries, endangering strategic stability in South Asia and beyond.
Recurring Pattern of Sanctions
This is not the first time the US has sanctioned Pakistani entities. In recent years, sanctions have also targeted Chinese, Emirati, and Belarusian companies accused of aiding Pakistan’s missile and drone programs. Despite being a long-term US partner, Pakistan has consistently rejected these measures, labeling them as politically motivated and harmful to global non-proliferation norms.
Implications for Regional Stability
The sanctions have reignited debates about the fairness of global non-proliferation regimes. Pakistan warned that such actions create dangerous implications for regional stability. The FO stated that the US approach undermines peace efforts by accentuating military imbalances in South Asia.
Pakistan has vowed to uphold its strategic programs as a defense mechanism while continuing to advocate for regional and global peace. The latest sanctions, however, underline the persistent discord between Pakistan and the US over non-proliferation policies and defense programs.
