Washington: The United States announced a new wave of sanctions in a heavy blow to Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile programme. This includes imposing sanctions on the Pakistani government-owned National Development Complex and three associated companies based in Karachi. US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller revealed that the sanctions were issued pursuant to an executive order. Its goal was to limit the spread of weapons of mass destruction and the technology used to deliver them. If any property associated with the company is located in the United States, it has the right to seize it through sanctions. Apart from this, it also prevents US citizens and companies from associating with them. “In light of the threat posed by Pakistan’s continued pursuit of long-range missile development, the United States is designating four entities for sanctions under Executive Order 13382, which targets nuclear weapons proliferators,” a US State Department press release said. Weapons of mass destruction and their delivery.
Pakistan manufactures dangerous missiles
The headquarters of NDC is located in Islamabad. According to a fact sheet issued by the US State Department, the National Defense Center plays a central role in Pakistan’s missile development efforts. It is actively seeking to acquire components for the country’s long-range ballistic missile systems, including the Shaheen series of missiles, which are believed to be capable of carrying nuclear warheads.
Pakistan possesses 170 nuclear bombs
Research by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists shows that Pakistan now has about 170 nuclear bombs in its weapons stockpile. Pakistan conducted its first nuclear test in 1998. Pakistan is outside the international agreement on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons. The sanctions include three private companies: Affiliates International, Akhtar & Sons Pvt Ltd and Rockside Enterprise. They are accused of helping to obtain equipment for the National Defense Center’s missile program.
