Pakistan has strongly condemned the US decision to impose sanctions on its National Development Complex (NDC) and three commercial entities, calling it “unfortunate and biased,” and asserting that it undermines peace and security.
Foreign Office Response
In a statement released late Wednesday night, Pakistan’s Foreign Office expressed its disappointment over the sanctions imposed by the United States, targeting NDC, Affiliates International, Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, and Rockside Enterprise under Executive Order (E.O.) 13382.
Sanctions Threaten Regional Stability
The Foreign Office emphasized that Pakistan’s strategic capabilities are designed to protect its sovereignty and contribute to peace and stability in South Asia. The sanctions, it stated, contradict the goal of peace and security by exacerbating military imbalances. Such actions, Pakistan warned, could have dangerous consequences for the strategic stability of the region and beyond.
Sacred Trust in Strategic Program
The statement further clarified that Pakistan’s strategic program is a sacred trust, entrusted to its leadership by the nation’s 240 million people. It noted that this trust is highly regarded across the political spectrum, and no compromise will be tolerated in maintaining its integrity.
Sanctions on Private Entities
Pakistan also expressed regret over the sanctions imposed on private commercial entities, pointing out that similar actions in the past were based on unfounded doubts and suspicions, without any concrete evidence.
Double Standards in Non-Proliferation Efforts
The Foreign Office criticized the US for its double standards, highlighting that while the US claims to adhere strictly to non-proliferation norms, it has previously waived licensing requirements for advanced military technology to other countries. Pakistan argued that such discriminatory practices undermine the credibility of non-proliferation efforts and jeopardize both regional and global peace and security.
