The United States has announced action against five entities and one individual whom it believes are involved in the proliferation of ballistic missiles, controlled missile equipment, and technology.
These include the Beijing Research Institute of Automation for Machinery Building Industry (RIAMB). The U.S. accuses this entity of being involved in weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems.
According to the US State Department, RIAMB collaborated with Pakistan’s National Development Complex (NDC). The U.S. alleges that this entity is involved in the development of Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missiles and is engaged in procuring equipment and parts for testing long-range rocket motors, including those for the Shaheen-III and Ababeel missiles.
The statement also accuses this entity of being involved in acquiring equipment for large systems.
The sanctions also targeted China-based firms Hubei Huachangda Intelligent Equipment Co, Universal Enterprise, and Xi’an Longde Technology Development Co, alongside Pakistan-based Innovative Equipment and a Chinese national, for knowingly transferring equipment under missile technology restrictions
Earlier this year, in April, the U.S. had already announced sanctions on three Chinese and one Belarusian company for allegedly assisting in the development of Pakistan’s missile program.
However, China has rejected the sanctions. Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for China’s embassy in Washington, said: “China firmly opposes unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction that have no basis in international law or authorization of the UN Security Council.”
China will “firmly protect” Chinese companies’ and individuals’ rights and interests, Liu said.
