'Not In Violation Of Indian Laws': MEA Responds To US Sanctions On 19 Indian Firms For Aiding Russia

In response to the United States imposing sanctions on 19 Indian firms alleged to have supplied dual-use technology to Russia, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has said that it is in touch with the US authorities to "clarify issues".

Addressing the issue of US sanctions on Indian companies, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We have seen these reports of US sanctions. India has a robust legal and regulatory framework on strategic trade and non-proliferation controls".

Jaiswal emphasised India's commitment to non-proliferation, highlighting its membership in three key international export control regimes—the Wassenaar Arrangement, the Australia Group, and the Missile Technology Control Regime—and adherence to United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions.

"We are also a member of three key multilateral non-proliferation export control regimes: The Wassenaar Arrangement, the Australia Group and the Missile Technology Control Regime; and have been effectively implementing relevant UNSC sanctions and UNSC Resolution-1540 on Non-Proliferation," the MEA spokesperson said.

"Our understanding is that the sanction, transactions, and companies are not in violation of Indian laws," he noted.

However, Jaiswal added that in keeping with India's established non-proliferation credentials, the MEA is working with all the relevant Indian departments and agencies to sensitise Indian companies on applicable export control provisions, as also inform them on new measures being implemented that could impact Indian companies in certain circumstances.

"Regular strategic trade export control outreach events for Indian industries and stakeholders are being carried out by agencies of the Government of India. We are also in touch with the U.S. authorities to clarify issues," he added.

The US action is part of broader sanctions against 400 entities and individuals globally, including companies from China, Switzerland, Thailand, and Turkiye, aimed at curtailing support to Russia’s defence sector.

The US Department of Treasury stated that the sanctions are intended to "stop the flow of critical tools and technologies that Russia needs to wage its illegal and immoral war against Ukraine".

As per the Treasury Department's listing, sanctioned Indian companies include Abhar Technologies and Services, Denvas Services, Galaxy Bearings, Orbit Fintrade LLP, Innovio Ventures, KDG Engineering (KDG), Khushbu Honing, Lokesh Machines, Pointer Electronics, RRG Engineering Technologies, Sharpline Automation, Shaurya Aeronautics, Shreegee Impex, Shreya Life Sciences, Emstytech.

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