The US State Department announced on Thursday that it has placed sanctions on a Chinese research institute and several companies for their involvement in supporting Pakistan’s ballistic missile program.
Earlier, in October 2023, Washington had also sanctioned three China-based companies for supplying items that could be used in Pakistan’s missile development.
According to Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, the Beijing Research Institute of Automation for Machine Building Industry helped Pakistan acquire equipment to test rocket motors for the Shaheen-3 and Ababeel missile systems, as well as potentially larger systems.
The sanctions also targeted several China-based companies, including Hubei Huachangda Intelligent Equipment Co, Universal Enterprise, and Xi’an Longde Technology Development Co. Additionally, a Pakistan-based company called Innovative Equipment and a Chinese national were sanctioned for knowingly transferring items restricted under missile technology rules.
Miller emphasized that the US will continue to take action against activities related to missile proliferation, no matter where they happen.
The embassies of China and Pakistan in Washington have not yet responded to requests for comment.
