A Tale Of American Gullibility And Pakistani Deceit

Source– The post is based on the article “A Tale Of American Gullibility And Pakistani Deceit” published in The Times of India on 16th September 2022.

Syllabus: GS2- International Relations

News– The article explains the sale of US military weapons to Pakistan and changing dynamics of US-Pakistan relationship.

Recently the US decided to provide a sustenance package  for the Pakistan F-16 fleet.It announced fopreign military sales to Pakistan worth $450 million.

What are the reasons given by US for military sale?

According to the USA, military sales support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the US. It provides interoperability in counterterrorism efforts. It  will not alter the basic military balance in the region”.

After Pakistan was designated a Major Non-Nato Ally  to secure its cooperation on global war on terror, USA sold 36 F-16 in 2006.

Why Trump presidency Changed the US policy?

Trump’s administration accused Pakistan of providing “safe haven to terrorists”.

It lashed out at Pakistan for its “lies and deceit”.

US suspended $900 million in aid to Pakistan and froze $225 million foreign military sale for 2017. It demanded decisive action against groups, including Afghan Taliban and the Haqqani Network.

In the backdrop of the Balakot incident, the US warned Pakistan about the use of F-16.

Pakistan has a proven record of the misuse of US military equipment against India.

What are the changing dynamics of Pakistan relations with the USA and China?

China has replaced the US as the primary strategic partner of choice for Pakistan.

China accounted for 53% of Pakistan’s arms imports between 2002-21 as compared to 20% from the US.

Washington thinks that military sales to Pakistan do not alter the power balance in the region.

The US image in Pakistan is deteriorating.Imran Khan accused USA hand in his ouster.

What is the strategy of Pakistan?

Pakistan army is concerned about deepening strategic partnership between USA and India.It is trying to improve its relationship with USA.