‘Unfortunate and biased,’ Pakistan reacts to US sanctions on missile program

Pakistan criticised the United States' decision to impose sanctions on four entities for supporting its ballistic missile program, calling the move “biased” and asserting that its strategic program is aimed at promoting peace and security.

Responding to the sanctions, the Foreign Office stated, “Pakistan’s strategic capabilities are meant to defend its sovereignty and preserve peace and stability in South Asia.”

In its official statement, the Foreign Office described the US decision as a threat to both regional and global security. It further claimed that the sanctions deviates from the objective of peace and security.

The press release further said that the sanctions aim to increase military imbalance and carry dangerous implications for strategic stability of our region and beyond

The Foreign Office emphasised that Pakistan’s strategic program represents "a sacred trust bestowed upon its leadership by the country’s 240 million citizens."

Pakistan also raised concerns over the sanctions targeting private entities, arguing that such measures are based on superficial allegations and lack substantial evidence.

The Foreign Office noted that while the US frequently highlights non-proliferation, it has previously waived licensing requirements for advanced military technology to other countries.

During a press briefing in Washington on Wednesday, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller alleged that the sanctioned Pakistani entities were assisting the country in advancing its ballistic missile program.

This assistance reportedly included the production of special vehicle chassis used to launch ballistic missiles.

The four Pakistani entities affected by the sanctions include the National Development Complex in Islamabad and three Karachi-based firms, Akhtar & Son, Affiliates International, and Rockside Enterprises.

Miller stated that the measures are part of efforts to curb “proliferators of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery."