US Imposes Sanctions on Chinese Suppliers for Pakistan’s Ballistic Missile Program, Reports Reuters

The U.S. State Department recently imposed sanctions on a Chinese research institute and several companies for their involvement in supporting Pakistan’s ballistic missile program. This action follows similar sanctions placed on three China-based firms in October 2023 for supplying missile-related items to Pakistan.

According to Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, the Beijing Research Institute of Automation for Machine Building Industry has collaborated with Pakistan to obtain equipment for testing rocket motors for the Shaheen-3 and Ababeel missile systems, as well as potentially larger systems.

The sanctions specifically targeted the China-based firms Hubei Huachangda Intelligent Equipment Co, Universal Enterprise, and Xi’an Longde Technology Development Co, along with the Pakistan-based Innovative Equipment and an individual from China. These entities were identified for knowingly transferring equipment in violation of missile technology restrictions.

Miller stated, “As today’s actions demonstrate, the United States will continue to act against proliferation and associated procurement activities of concern, wherever they occur.”

In response, Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for China’s embassy in Washington, expressed strong opposition to the unilateral sanctions and asserted that such actions lack a basis in international law or UN Security Council authorization. Liu emphasized that China will “firmly protect” the rights and interests of its companies and citizens.

The embassy of Pakistan did not immediately provide a comment on the issue.