THE US says that the US-Pakistan relationship is “important” and “vital”. Pakistan has, however, expressed concern that despite some progress in the recent past, the relationship is witnessing a downward spiral because of the US Congress’s decision to stop sale of eight F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan.
The US Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s decision to block US funding of $430 million out of $699 million estimated for the entire package demonstrates one thing most dramatically: India’s influence in the US Congress and Administration. From now on, the US decisions in regard to South Asia, especially Pakistan, will be cleared by Delhi. Washington has surrendered this space to India voluntarily.
Strategic Perspectives Through Research and Dialogue
