POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Zulfi Bukhari Condemns US Sanctions on Pakistani Institutions

PTI leader Zulfi Bukhari strongly condemns US sanctions on Pakistan’s National Development Complex and three commercial entities, criticizing double standards in US foreign policy.
2024-12-19
Zulfi Bukhari Condemns US Sanctions on Pakistani Institutions

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Zulfi Bukhari has strongly condemned the recent sanctions imposed by the United States on four Pakistani institutions, accusing them of being involved in the country’s ballistic missile program. Bukhari expressed his firm opposition to the sanctions targeting the National Development Complex (NDC) and three commercial institutions based in Karachi—Akhtar & Sons, Affiliates International, and Rockside Enterprises.

Bukhari, who is a prominent PTI figure and former advisor to the Prime Minister, stated that the sanctions were a reflection of the US government’s continued double standards, especially under President Joe Biden’s administration. He criticized Washington’s stance, emphasizing that such measures undermine Pakistan’s sovereignty and national security.

Bukhari’s Criticism of US Actions

In his remarks, Zulfi Bukhari pointed out that the sanctions were unjustified, considering Pakistan’s strategic position in a volatile region. He underscored the importance of taking necessary measures to protect the nation’s sovereignty, especially given the country’s complex geopolitical situation.

The PTI leader further emphasized that these sanctions, which target key institutions involved in Pakistan’s defense capabilities, only serve to create tensions between the two nations, with long-term implications for bilateral relations.

Bukhari also questioned the consistency of US foreign policy, accusing the Biden administration of maintaining double standards. “Even in its final stages, the Biden government continues to exert pressure on Pakistan with unjust actions that do not reflect the realities of international diplomacy,” he said.

US Sanctions Details

The US sanctions were imposed on four Pakistani entities, including the Islamabad-based National Development Complex (NDC), which plays a significant role in the development of Pakistan’s defense technology, particularly long-range ballistic missiles. The other entities affected are commercial organizations based in Karachi: Akhtar & Sons, Affiliates International, and Rockside Enterprises.

The US State Department, in its announcement, accused these institutions of aiding Pakistan’s missile development program, which it claims contributes to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs). However, Pakistan has consistently rejected these allegations, asserting that its defense programs are for national security purposes and not intended to destabilize the region.

Implications for Pakistan-US Relations

The sanctions are expected to exacerbate the already strained relations between Pakistan and the United States. The two countries have a complex history of cooperation and disagreement, particularly over issues like security, counterterrorism, and defense.

While the Biden administration has reiterated that it values its relationship with Pakistan, the imposition of sanctions underscores ongoing tensions, particularly regarding Pakistan’s defense capabilities and its alliances in the region.

Conclusion

Zulfi Bukhari’s condemnation of the US sanctions highlights the ongoing frustration within Pakistan over perceived foreign interference and double standards in international policy. As the US continues to scrutinize Pakistan’s defense sector, the relationship between the two countries remains at a crossroads, with both sides facing challenges in navigating their geopolitical interests.