Pakistan has strongly opposed the United States’ recent sanctions on its ballistic missile programme. The Foreign Office termed the sanctions “unfair” and warned that they could disrupt regional stability and peace in South Asia.
US Sanctions on Pakistan’s Missile Programme
The US announced sanctions targeting Pakistan’s National Development Complex (NDC) and three commercial entities, citing concerns about long-range missile development. Pakistan dismissed these claims, calling the sanctions discriminatory and based on unfounded allegations.
Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch stated that such actions undermine international non-proliferation efforts and create imbalances in South Asia. She criticized the double standards of the US, highlighting instances where similar restrictions were waived for other nations.
Pakistan’s Strategic Defence and Regional Stability
Pakistan described its strategic programme as a “sacred trust” of its 240 million citizens and reaffirmed its commitment to defending sovereignty and maintaining peace. The government emphasized that its defence capabilities adhere to strict non-proliferation norms and are designed to ensure regional stability.
The sanctions, Pakistan argued, pose dangerous implications for South Asia by intensifying military asymmetries. Islamabad vowed to continue safeguarding its interests against actions it considers unjust.
