The United States has imposed sanctions on four companies from China and Russia for supporting Iran’s missile program, which remains a “major proliferation concern,” Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said.
The announcement was made on Friday as the United States continues to crack down on Iran for continuing its activities related to nuclear weapons.
“The United States has sanctioned four entities in China and Russia for their support of Iran’s missile program, which remains a significant proliferation concern. We will continue to use all of our sanctions tools to prevent Iran from advancing its missile capabilities, “Pompeo said.
The companies are Chengdu Best New Materials Co Ltd and Zibo Elim Trade Co, Ltd. in China and Nilco Group which is also known as Nil Fam Khazar Company and Santers Holding and Joint Stock Company Elecon in Russia for transferring technology and sensitive items to Iran . missile program.
President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the landmark Iran nuclear deal in 2018. After pulling out of the Iranian nuclear deal, Trump has called on all countries to reduce their oil purchases from Iran to zero or they will face secondary sanctions.
Iran insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. Pompeo said all countries should be vigilant about Iran’s efforts to advance its missile program.
“These measures are part of our response to Iran’s evil activities. These determinations underscore the continued need for all countries to remain vigilant in Iran’s efforts to advance its missile program, ”Pompeo said.
“We will continue to work to impede Iran’s missile development efforts and use our sanctions authorities to single out foreign suppliers, such as these entities in the People’s Republic of China and Russia that provide missile-related materials and technology to Iran. The sanctions imposed include restrictions on US government purchases, US government assistance and exports and will be in effect for two years, “he said.
Pompeo said the imposition of sanctions against these foreign entities is consistent with the United States’ efforts to use all available measures to prevent Iran from advancing its missile capabilities.
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