Pakistan has urged the US to restore military financing and sales to the country, as it faces a cash-strapped situation due to economic difficulties and security challenges. The request was made during a meeting between Pakistan’s Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and US Senator Lindsey Graham.
Pakistan has been struggling with a deteriorating economy and rising security challenges, including ongoing conflicts with India and militant groups. The country’s foreign reserves have been dwindling and it has been forced to seek financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The US had previously suspended military aid to Pakistan in 2018, citing the country’s failure to take decisive action against terrorist groups. However, Pakistan has argued that it has made significant efforts to combat terrorism and has cooperated with the US in its counterterrorism operations.
General Bajwa emphasized the need for the US to recognize Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and to restore military financing and sales to the country. He also highlighted the strategic importance of Pakistan in the region and its role in promoting peace and stability in Afghanistan.
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Senator Graham, who is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said that he would work to restore military financing and sales to Pakistan. He also praised Pakistan’s efforts in the fight against terrorism and expressed hope for improved relations between the two countries.
The request from Pakistan comes amid a broader shift in US foreign policy towards South Asia, as the Biden administration seeks to strengthen ties with India as a counterweight to China’s influence in the region. However, Pakistan’s strategic location and its role in the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan mean that it remains an important player in the region.
The US and Pakistan will need to find a way to balance their competing interests and concerns in order to build a constructive relationship. The restoration of military financing and sales could be a step towards improving relations, but it will also require Pakistan to take concrete actions to address US concerns about terrorism and regional stability.
As of now, it remains to be seen how the US will respond to Pakistan’s request and whether it will consider restoring military financing and sales to the country.
