The United States imposed sanctions on Thursday targeting Chinese companies and a research institute accused of supplying Pakistan’s ballistic missile program. According to the US State Department, these entities provided Pakistan with missile technology and equipment used in the development of its Shaheen-3 and Ababeel systems.
The Beijing Research Institute of Automation for Machine Building Industry was singled out for its role in procuring equipment to test rocket motors for Pakistan’s missile program. Additionally, China-based companies Hubei Huachangda Intelligent Equipment Co, Universal Enterprise, and Xi’an Longde Technology Development Co, alongside Pakistan-based Innovative Equipment, were also sanctioned. A Chinese national was similarly penalized for their involvement in transferring missile-applicable technology to Pakistan.
This action follows similar sanctions placed in October 2023 against other Chinese companies involved in supplying missile-related items to Pakistan. In a statement, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized that Washington will continue to take measures against proliferation activities worldwide.
Both the Chinese and Pakistani embassies in Washington have not yet issued official comments. However, China’s embassy spokesperson, Liu Pengyu, condemned the sanctions, asserting that China opposes unilateral actions that are not authorized by the United Nations Security Council and will protect the rights and interests of Chinese companies and citizens.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokeswoman, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, stated that they are in the process of gathering further details regarding the US sanctions.