In a recent development, the United States government has imposed sanctions on a Pakistan company and several Chinese entities and individuals for their involvement in supplying equipment and technology for Pakistan’s ballistic missile development. This marks the sixth round of sanctions on Chinese and Pakistani companies since November 2021.
The US State Department spokesperson, Matthew Miller, named specific Chinese firms and a Pakistani company for knowingly transferring equipment under missile technology restrictions. The US aims to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction through these sanctions.
Despite these measures, Pakistan’s missile development continues at a rapid pace. Experts believe that the US sanctions may be more of a tactic to pressure China rather than hinder Pakistan’s progress in missile development. Pakistan has maintained a robust missile program for decades, focusing on deterrence against India.
The US-Pakistan relationship remains complex, with periodic sanctions being used as a tool of engagement. As Pakistan continues to advance its missile capabilities, the Biden administration has taken an aggressive stance in targeting entities supporting Pakistan’s missile program. This signifies that the US will continue to use a mix of incentives and penalties in its dealings with Pakistan.
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