ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has expressed deep regret over the United States’ decision to impose sanctions on its National Development Complex (NDC) and three private commercial entities, calling the move “unfortunate and biased” on Thursday.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted that Pakistan’s strategic capabilities are designed to safeguard its sovereignty and contribute to peace and stability in South Asia.
In a strongly worded statement, the government highlighted that these sanctions undermine the very objectives of global peace and security by exacerbating military imbalances in the region. “Such policies have dangerous implications for strategic stability, not only in South Asia but also beyond,” the statement read.
Pakistan reaffirmed that its strategic program is a sacred trust, entrusted by 240 million citizens to its leadership. The government stressed that this trust upheld across the political spectrum, is inviolable and cannot be compromised.
The imposition of sanctions on private commercial entities was also criticised, with Pakistan pointing out that similar actions in the past were based on “mere doubts and suspicion” without any concrete evidence. The statement accused the United States of double standards, noting that while Pakistan faces restrictions, licensing requirements for advanced military technology exports to other countries have been waived in the past.
“These discriminatory practices undermine the credibility of global non-proliferation regimes and pose a threat to both regional and international peace and security,” the statement added.
Pakistan called on the international community to recognize the adverse effects of such unilateral actions and urged the United States to adopt policies that promote fairness and strategic stability.
The US sanctions, announced by the Department of State on Wednesday, cited concerns over the proliferation and delivery of weapons of mass destruction. The sanctioned entities include Pakistan’s National Development Complex (NDC), Affiliates International, Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, and Rockside Enterprise.
According to the US State Department, these organisations were involved in procuring equipment and materials to advance Pakistan’s long-range missile capabilities. The NDC was identified as a central player in Pakistan’s ballistic missile program, while the other entities were accused of supplying missile-applicable items.
“This decision reflects the continuing proliferation threat posed by Pakistan’s missile development efforts,” the State Department said, reaffirming its commitment to addressing proliferation risks globally.
Pakistan has urged the US to reconsider its approach, warning that such actions undermine efforts toward global peace and stability while perpetuating regional tensions.
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