“Follow all developments which have bearing on our security, interest very closely”: MEA on Pakistan’s ballistic missile project

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Friday India follows all developments which have a bearing on its security and interest very closely. He said that India takes these things very seriously and takes action as appropriate.

Jaiswal’s statement comes after US on Wednesday (local time) sanctioned four entities that were contributing to Pakistan’s Ballistic Missile Program.

Asked about India’s stance on Pakistan’s ballistic missile project in the press briefing on Friday, Jaiswal said, “We follow all developments which have a bearing on our security and interest very closely and we take these things very seriously and take action as appropriate.”

US Department of State spokesperson Matthew Miller on Wednesday (local time) said that it is designating four entities that are contributing to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program.

“Today, the United States is designating four entities that are contributing to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program. We have been clear and consistent about our concerns, and we will continue to engage constructively with Pakistan on these issues,” Miller posted on X.

In a statement, US Department of State said, “In light of the continuing proliferation threat of Pakistan’s long-range missile development, the United States is designating four entities for sanctions pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13382, which targets proliferators of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery.”

In the statement, US Department of State shared details regarding the four entities which have been designated by the US and also mentioned their contribution to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program.

The statement said, “The National Development Complex (NDC), located in Islamabad, Pakistan, has worked to acquire items in furtherance of Pakistan’s long range ballistic missile program – including special vehicle chassis intended to be used as launch support equipment for ballistic missiles and missile testing equipment. The United States assesses NDC is responsible for Pakistan’s development of ballistic missiles, including the SHAHEEN-series ballistic missiles.”

“Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, located in Karachi, Pakistan, has worked for NDC to supply a range of equipment to Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile program. Affiliates International, located in Karachi, Pakistan, has facilitated procurements of missile-applicable items for NDC and others in support of Pakistan’s ballistic missile program. Rockside Enterprise, located in Karachi, Pakistan, has worked for NDC to supply a range of equipment to Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile program,” it added.