US changes foreign policy toward Pakistan

The US congress has criticized Pakistan’s dishonesty in fight against the insurgent groups and Afghanistan Peace process and caused US policy changes against the country.

US congressmen have said that Islamabad has always supported the insurgent groups that attacked the Afghan and US troops.

Topics concerning reduction in US defence and civilian assistance to Pakistan, and Congressional hold on some already approved funds were also deliberated upon.

The Ministry of Interior Affairs (MoI) says that the world has understood that the terrorist save havens are in Pakistan.

“US decision is in interest of Afghanistan as all countries of the world now understand that terrorist havens are in Pakistan,” Najibullah Danish, deputy spokesman of MoI said.

The members of National Assembly have also considered US pressure on Pakistan for combating terrorism effective and insisted on isolating the country.

“Afghanistan and the regional countries expect the greatest powers in the world to categorize their aids regarding to the role of Pakistan in counter-terrorism,” Ahmad Behzad, member of Parliament said.

Muhammad Asef Sidiqi, another Parliament member has also said, “Lack of assisting Pakistan will have negative impacts on the country. The international community now understands that Pakistan does not seriously act against terrorism.”

US decision comes as it was reported that US have stymied Pakistani efforts to further acquire F-16 fighter jets, according to reports in local media.

Analysts say the move could have implications for the bilateral relationship at a sensitive time if the proposed deal stalls altogether.

The deal has apparently been put on hold by Congress in an effort to impede its progress, something the Obama administration is reportedly attempting to reverse.

It reiterated the steps taken by the US to strengthen Pakistan’s capacity in its counter-terrorism efforts, through continued provision of military equipment and assistance with approval of the US Congress – a testimony to the strength of Pakistan-US bilateral relations.