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U.S , China ,Pakistan

In a recent announcement, the United States has imposed sanctions on three Chinese companies and one Belarusian entity for their involvement in supplying missile-applicable items to Pakistan's ballistic missile program. The sanctioned companies are Xi'an Longde Technology Development, Tianjin Creative Source International Trade, and Granpect Co. Ltd from China, along with Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant from Belarus.

According to State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, these entities have been engaged in activities that materially contribute to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction or their means of delivery, including supporting Pakistan's long-range missile program. The US government reiterated its commitment to disrupting procurement networks that support proliferation activities globally.

China, known for its close ties with Pakistan, has historically been a significant supplier of arms and defense equipment to support Islamabad's military modernization efforts. Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant, based in Belarus, has been identified as a supplier of special vehicle chassis to Pakistan's long-range ballistic missile program, which are utilized as launch support equipment.

The Xi'an Longde Technology Development Company Limited has supplied missile-related equipment, including filament winding machines, which can be used in the production of rocket motor cases. Tianjin Creative Source International Trade Co Ltd provided missile-related equipment such as stir welding equipment and a linear accelerator system, which are assessed by the United States to have applications in space launch vehicle manufacturing.

The procurement activities of these companies were likely intended for Pakistan's Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and National Development Complex (NDC), responsible for the development of Pakistan's Missile Technology Control Regime Category I ballistic missiles. Granpect Company has collaborated with SUPARCO to supply equipment for testing large-diameter rocket motors.

These sanctions underscore the US government's efforts to strengthen the global nonproliferation regime by targeting entities involved in facilitating the spread of weapons of mass destruction or their delivery systems. By imposing targeted sanctions, the US aims to deter such activities and disrupt the supply chains supporting proliferation efforts.

The implications of these sanctions extend beyond the immediate companies targeted, serving as a deterrent to other entities considering similar activities. It highlights the importance of international cooperation in preventing the spread of technologies that could pose risks to global security and stability.

In response to the sanctions, the affected companies and their respective governments may face diplomatic and economic repercussions. However, the ultimate goal remains to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and mitigate potential threats to international peace and security.