US imposes sanctions on Chinese, Belarusian firms for aiding Pakistan's missile project

The US said it has imposed sanctions on four firms, three Chinese and one Belarusian, for aiding Pakistan's ballistic missile project. The action was taken to disrupt networks “supporting proliferation activities,” a press statement read. The four companies allegedly provided Pakistan with items to support its ballistic missile programmes, including its long-range missile endeavours.

“The companies have been involved in activities or transactions that significantly contribute to or pose a risk of substantially contributing to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction or their delivery systems by Pakistan,” read the statement.

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The US added that it was committed to boosting the international nonproliferation framework by acting against proliferation networks of weapons of mass destruction.

Which four firms are targeted?

Belarus's Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant

Reason: The firm is believed to have provided a specialised vehicle chassis to Pakistan's long-range ballistic missile program. This item provided launch support to missiles developed by the National Development Complex (NDC).

China’s Xi'an Longde Technology Development Company Limited

This Chinese firm was targeted because it provided Pakistan with missile-related equipment, such as a filament winding machine.

China’s Tianjin Creative Source International Trade Co Ltd

This Chinese firm is accused of supplying stir welding equipment and a linear accelerator system to Pakistan's ballistic missile program. This was likely meant for Pakistan's Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), its space agency.

China’s Granpect Company Limited

This Chinese company allegedly joined hands with SUPARCO in Pakistan to provide testing equipment for large-diameter rocket motors.

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“All individuals or entities that have ownership, either directly or indirectly, 50 per cent or more by one or more blocked persons are also blocked. All transactions by U.S. persons or within (or transiting) the United States that involve any property or interests in property of designated or otherwise blocked persons are prohibited unless authorized by a general or specific license issued by OFAC or exempt,” the press release said.

(With inputs from agencies)