WASHINGTON: The US State Department has reaffirmed Pakistan’s status as a long-term partner but emphasized its willingness to impose sanctions to safeguard American interests.
During a news briefing on Tuesday, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller addressed the recent sanctions imposed on companies accused of supplying components for Pakistan’s missile program. On September 12, the US sanctioned three Chinese firms and one Pakistani company for their involvement in Pakistan’s ballistic missile development.
“Pakistan has been a long-term partner, and this action reflects ongoing areas of disagreement,” Miller said. “When such disagreements arise, we will act decisively to protect America’s interests.”
In response to questions about whether the sanctions contradicted the spirit of partnership, Miller clarified, “Our policy has always been to deny support to Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile program. We will continue to use sanctions and other measures to ensure our national security is not compromised.”
Miller also noted that the sanctions are part of a broader effort to address proliferation-related activities globally. He highlighted recent executive orders and designations targeting entities involved in supplying Pakistan’s missile program, emphasizing a longstanding commitment to preventing the misuse of US financial assistance.
