ISLAMABAD: Information Minister Pervaiz Rashid said the attitude of United States Senate Committee regarding the sale of F-16 fighter jets is “not appropriate” and it is creating more trouble for Obama administration.

US should realise that Pakistan is fighting their war against terrorism to ensure peace in the world, he said on Friday during a programme aired on Radio Pakistan.

Senator Nehal Hashmi, Defence analyst Air Marshal (retd) Shahid Latif and other senior experts also expressed their views in the programme.

Rashid said the United States agreed to give subsidy on the purchase of F-16s, but it has backed out of the agreement because of Congress’ pressure.

“Pakistan is sacrificing lives of its citizens and suffering economic losses for the global peace.”

The F-16 fighter jets are playing a vital role in continuing war against terrorism, he added.

Shahid Latif said Pakistan should look for other options other than the United States to strengthen its defence.

“We already have developed JF-17 Thunder with the support of China and these are reliable and affordable jets which are becoming backbone of our air force.”

Defense analyst Lt Gen (retd) Amjad Shoaib said Pakistan was interested in purchase of F-16 fighter jets from the United States because our pilots are familiar with the aircraft.

However, our pilots are very competent and capable to operate all kinds of fighter jets.

“US Congress is under the strong influence of Indian lobby. Therefore, we should not depend on United States.”

Senator Nehal Hashmi said the government will try to mature the F-16 deal till the last moment.

Washington is aware of this fact that Pakistan is not its colony. We can purchase fighter jets from other countries as well, the Senator maintained.

Pakistan will consult with other suppliers of F-16s regarding the alternatives of financing, he added.

Opinion

Editorial

System failure
Updated 12 Nov, 2024

System failure

Relevant institutions often treat right to internet connectivity with the same disdain as they do civil and political rights.
Narrowing the gap
12 Nov, 2024

Narrowing the gap

PERHAPS a pat on the back is in order for the ECP. Together with Nadra, it has made visible efforts to reduce...
Back on their feet
12 Nov, 2024

Back on their feet

A STIRRING comeback in the series has ended Pakistan’s 22-year wait for victory against world champions Australia....
Time to deliver
Updated 11 Nov, 2024

Time to deliver

Pakistan must display a serious commitment to climate change adaptation and mitigation at home.
Smaller government
11 Nov, 2024

Smaller government

THE IMF bailout programme has put the government under pressure to curtail its spending, especially current...
Unsafe inheritance
11 Nov, 2024

Unsafe inheritance

DESPITE regulations, the troubling practice of robbing women of their rightful inheritance — the culprits are ...