The US Department of State has denied any rift between Islamabad and Washington after the imposition of sanctions on four commercial entities allegedly linked to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program. The spokesperson reaffirmed the importance of Pakistan’s partnership with the US, particularly in security and trade.
The US government has advised businesses considering deals with Iran to be aware of the potential risk of sanctions. The warning came in response to a visit by the Iranian president to Pakistan, during which the two countries signed eight memorandums of understanding and agreed to increase bilateral trade. The US recently imposed sanctions on suppliers to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program, including three Chinese companies, due to their role in supplying equipment and materials to the program. Despite the sanctions, the US maintains a good relationship with Pakistan, which it considers an important security partner in the region.
A high-ranking U.S. official has issued a warning to businesses considering ventures with Iran, highlighting the potential for sanctions imposed by the United States. Deputy Spokesperson of the U.S. State Department, Vedant Patel, emphasized the importance of understanding the associated risks, while acknowledging Pakistan’s autonomy in determining its foreign policy pursuits. This warning came in response to inquiries regarding the recent visit of the Iranian president to Pakistan, during which the two nations signed eight Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and pledged to elevate bilateral trade to USD 10 billion. The U.S. warning follows recent sanctions imposed on suppliers to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program, including entities from China. Patel clarified that these sanctions targeted entities involved in the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems, especially companies based in China and Belarus.
During President Raisi’s visit to Pakistan, the US has warned of potential sanctions risk for businesses dealing with Iran. Eight bilateral agreements were signed between the countries, covering various areas of cooperation. The US has designated four entities linked to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program, imposing sanctions on them. Pakistan’s discussions with Iran focused on strengthening political, economic, and cultural ties. The US measures are part of efforts to disrupt proliferation networks and activities related to weapons of mass destruction.
