MEA Official Spokesperson response to questions about imposition of sanctions on two Indian companies by US Government

New Delhi
August 7, 2006 

We have seen the reports about imposition of sanctions on two Indian companies viz. Balaji Amines and Prachi Poly Products. The sanctions imposed by the US Government on the two Indian firms relate to transfer of some chemicals to Iran. Our preliminary assessment is that the transfer of such chemicals was not in violation of our regulations or our international obligations. Government of India’s commitment to prevent onward proliferation is second to none. We have instituted a rigorous system of export controls and our track record in this regard is well known. India is working with the international community including with the US as a partner against proliferation. In this context the imposition of sanctions by the US on our firms, which in our view have not acted in violation of our laws or regulations, is not justified.