Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on Friday said India does not agree with the US rationale that sale of F-16 combat jets to Pakistan will help combat terrorism.
In a written reply in the Lok Sabha, Parrikar said India has expressed disappointment at the decision of the US to notify the sale of F-16 aircrafts to Pakistan.
India does not agree with the US rationale that such arms transfers help to combat terrorism, he said.
Reacting strongly, India had last month summoned US Ambassador to India Richard Verma to convey its displeasure and disappointment over Obama administrations decision to sell the fighter jets to Pakistan.
Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar had summoned Verma to the South Block and during the 45-minute meeting conveyed to him Indias concerns over the US military aid to Pakistan which New Delhi believes used for into anti-India activities. PTI
Senate okays F-16 sale to Pak despite opposition
New York: The US Senate on Thursday blocked an effort to prevent the $700 million sale of Lockheed Martin Corp F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan, although a key lawmaker said he would not allow the use of US funds to finance it.
Lawmakers voted 71 to 24 against an attempt introduced by Republican Senator Rand Paul to prevent the sale under legislation known as the Arms Control Act.
President Barack Obama’s administration announced on 12 February that it had approved the sale to Pakistan of the aircraft, as well as radars and other equipment. It drew immediate criticism from India and concern from a large section of Congress, cutting across party lines.
Paul had called Pakistan ”an uncertain ally” and other lawmakers expressed concerns about Pakistan’s nuclear programme, commitment to fighting terrorist organisations and cooperation in the Afghanistan peace process.
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