Quake prompts review of F-16s deal
Pakistan is reconsidering its plan to buy scores of new and used American-made
A US official said Pakistan was reconsidering the scope and timing of the transfer out of concern for the political and economic impact of making a multibillion dollar arms deal as it still copes with a devastating earthquake that has killed thousands of people.
Pakistan is seeking billions of dollars in relief and reconstruction aid. The Pakistani diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, did not suggest the deal would be jettisoned. He said there were many options, including delay. “Everything is open to possibility,” he added.
Congress has been informally told of plans to provide the South Asian nuclear state with about 55 new
But a Pakistani diplomat argued the F-16 deal was a “strategic necessity”. “You cannot afford to lower your guard or your defenses. At the same time, you have to cope with the rest of the difficulties of life as well,” he said. The administration last March announced its willingness to sell advanced fighter jets to Pakistan.
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