Richard Grenell, nominated as the special envoy by President-elect Donald Trump, mentioned in an interview that Marco Rubio, the nominated Secretary of State, is prepared to engage in discussions about Pakistan’s missile program. Grenell highlighted that countries with nuclear capabilities are handled differently, and Rubio is ready to address this critical issue.
Grenell also pointed out that the Biden administration is attempting to accomplish in its final 45 days what it failed to achieve over the previous four years.
Read More: Pakistan Calls US Concerns Over Missiles Unreasonable
When asked about the U.S.-Pakistan relationship, Grenell praised the Trump administration’s positive ties with Pakistan’s government. He compared imprisoned Pakistani leader to Trump, suggesting that both were political outsiders who expressed straightforward ideas. Grenell further stressed that efforts are being made to secure the release of the former Pakistani Prime Minister, noting that the charges against him are similar to those faced by Trump.
In recent developments, the U.S. imposed sanctions on four Pakistani entities involved in Pakistan’s ballistic missile development. These sanctions target organizations, including the National Development Complex in Islamabad and three Karachi-based entities: Akhtar & Sons, Affiliates International, and Rookside Enterprises. The U.S. State Department explained that these entities played a role in advancing Pakistan’s ballistic missile program.
At an event, John Finer, the U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor, warned that Pakistan, as a nuclear-armed country, is developing long-range ballistic missiles that could potentially target not only South Asia but also the U.S.
In response, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the sanctions, labeling them biased. The Ministry reaffirmed that Pakistan’s strategic capabilities are intended to ensure peace and stability in South Asia.
