The United States has reaffirmed its decision not to support Pakistan’s ballistic missile program, emphasizing its long-standing opposition to the development and spread of dangerous weapons.
Matthew Miller, a spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, stated, “We have been clear and consistent about our concerns with Pakistan’s ballistic missile program for many years.” He added that the U.S. will continue to use sanctions and other measures to protect its national security and prevent its financial system from being misused by weapons proliferators.
Miller noted that, despite these concerns, the U.S. still views Pakistan as a close partner. “Pakistan has been a long-term partner of ours, and this action shows that while we disagree on some issues, we will act to protect America’s interests,” he said.
While the U.S. opposes Pakistan’s missile program, it treats India’s long-range missile program differently. Both countries have not signed the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Pakistan’s missile program mainly aims to deter India, while India enhances its ballistic weapons to counter threats from China.
Recently, the U.S. imposed sanctions on a Chinese research institute, a Chinese national, and three Chinese companies for allegedly assisting in the spread of dangerous weapons. Miller explained that the Chinese institute helped Pakistan acquire equipment for its Shaheen-3 and Ababeel missile systems.
Previously, the U.S. also sanctioned a Chinese research institute and several companies involved in supplying Pakistan’s missile program. In October 2023, three China-based companies were targeted for providing missile-related items to Pakistan.
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Miller stated that the Beijing Research Institute of Automation for Machine Building Industry had collaborated with Pakistan to procure testing equipment for the Shaheen-3 and Ababeel systems and possibly for larger systems. The sanctions also affected Chinese companies Hubei Huachangda Intelligent Equipment Co, Universal Enterprise, and Xi’an Longde Technology Development Co, along with Pakistan-based Innovative Equipment and a Chinese national, for violating missile technology restrictions.
Pakistan criticized these “double standards” and discriminatory practices, saying they undermine global nonproliferation efforts, increase military imbalances, and threaten international peace and security.
