US intends not to diminish relationship with Pakistan
Thursday, May 5th, 2016 12:27:31 by fatimaarshad
The recent issue of the purchase of F-16s, between Pakistan and the United States has raised many concerns over the relationship of both the countries. However, the US State Department’s spokesperson put these claims to rest during a press brief to reporters.
On Tuesday, spokesman John Kirby told reporters that the US has ‘absolutely no intention’ of diminishing its relationship with Pakistan in any way. Despite the reporters’ pointed questions, Kirby refused to criticize Pakistan over its decision to look for other options to buy the eight F-16 fighter jets.
“These are sovereign decisions that nations make with respect to their defence needs, and it’s up to Pakistan to speak to how they’ll fulfil their defence needs,” said Kirby when asked if it would strain relationships between the two countries in case Pakistan bought fighter jets from China.
“As for the relationship, as I’ve said many, many times, it’s an important one. It’s critical; it’s vital in that — particularly in that part of the world; and it’s a relationship we have absolutely no intention of losing focus on or diminishing in any way,” he said. “But these are obviously sovereign decisions that Pakistan has to make,” he added.
A deal was made between Pakistan and US for the sale of eight F-16 fighter jets, on mutual funding basis. Initially it was agreed that Pakistan would pay $270 million for the eight aircrafts while the remainder amount of $430 million was to be paid by US from its Foreign Military Finance (FMF) fund. However, during a recent congress session, it was decided by the US government that it will not provide that funding to Pakistan. Due to its inability to pay the full amount, Pakistan is now considering options to buy other fighter jets.
Short URL: https://www.newspakistan.pk/?p=52867
Posted by fatimaarshad
on May 5 2016. Filed under Pakistan.
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