Islamabad: Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reacted strongly to the recent statement by a U.S. official regarding Pakistan’s missile program. The statement, which accused Pakistan of violating international norms, has been labeled “illogical” and “baseless” by Pakistan’s spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch.
In her response, Baloch dismissed the allegations made by the U.S. official and the think tank’s claims as false, calling the statement irrational and without merit.
The statement comes two days after the United States announced new sanctions on Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile program, which is believed to be armed with nuclear-capable weapons. The U.S. imposed restrictions on three commercial entities, including the National Development Complex (NDC), which are reportedly involved in overseeing the missile program.
In response, Pakistan condemned the sanctions, calling them biased and regrettable. The Pakistani government asserted that the measures were unjust and were based on unfounded assumptions.
On December 19, U.S. State Department Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel had expressed concerns during a press briefing, stating that “the U.S. is committed to nuclear non-proliferation, and Pakistan is a key partner in this effort. However, we have concerns regarding Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile program.” Patel also reiterated that U.S. policy has consistently been to deny support for Pakistan’s long-range missile capabilities.
The sanctions were imposed under U.S. Executive Order 13382, which targets individuals and entities involved in the proliferation of weapons and missile systems.
The U.S. Department of State specified that the sanctioned entities include the National Development Complex (NDC), Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, Affiliates International, and Rock Side Enterprises, all of which are accused of assisting in the provision of materials and equipment for Pakistan’s missile program.
