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WASHINGTON: The United States (US) House of Representatives on Thursday voted 277 to 147 in favour of a defence policy bill seeking to increase restrictions on military aid for Pakistan unless certain conditions are met.
The House, expressing frustration over what they term Islamabad's failure to crack down on the Haqqani network, passed the $602 billion National Defense Authorization Act 2017, or NDAA late on Wednesday.
The NDAA will block $450 million in aid to Islamabad unless it does more to fight the militant group, which lawmakers see as a major threat to US forces in Afghanistan.
The bill requires the Pentagon to certify that Pakistan is conducting military operations to disrupt the Haqqani network, not letting the network use North Waziristan as a safe haven and actively coordinating with Afghanistan's government to fight the network along their border.
As they finalised the 2017 version of the annual bill, House members added three amendments related to Pakistan. All passed by unanimous voice vote.
One added a fourth requirement to the release of the aid, that the administration certify Pakistan has shown progress in arresting and prosecuting Haqqani network senior leaders and mid-level operatives.
Another required that the Secretary of Defence certify Pakistan is not using its military or any funds or equipment provided by the US to persecute minority groups.
And a third added a "sense of Congress" that Shakil Afridi is an international hero and calls for his immediate release from prison.
Pakistan sentenced Afridi in 2012 to 33 years in jail on charges of belonging to a militant group, which he denies. That sentence was overturned and Afridi is now awaiting trial on another charge.
The government says its courts will decide Afridi's fate, and has angrily criticised US politicians, including Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, over calls to release him.
The House version of the NDAA is not the final version of the legislation. It must be combined with a Senate bill before being sent to the White House for President Barack Obama to sign, or veto.
However, there is also strong criticism of Pakistan in the US Senate. This month, Senator Bob Corker used his authority as chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee to bar the use of any US funds for Pakistan to buy American F-16 fighter jets.
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May 20, 2016 09:35am
I was of the opinion that Pak Army doesn't rely on any kind of aid.
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May 20, 2016 09:36am
That's it. US and Pakistan relations are going to hit a standstill. Good luck to US in Afghanistan and South Asia.
Hello, Russia :)
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May 20, 2016 09:37am
Nothing unusual... What matters is that the congress still realises the importance of maintining strong ties with Pakistan... an all weather friend...
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May 20, 2016 09:36am
how much more humiliation Pak wants for these F-16's
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May 20, 2016 09:38am
It is in the best interest of Pakistan to reject any aid from USA and look after its interests with regards to Afghanistan.
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May 20, 2016 09:45am
Disastrous and highly foolish decision by US senate, soon US will see the results of this decision on ground, they will realize some mistakes cannot be unmade and this is one of them.
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May 20, 2016 09:47am
Final nail in the US coffin,by deciding to abandon its most faithful ally,US will not able to hold much longer in Afghanistan.
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May 20, 2016 09:51am
Irrelevant. Our joint production and military production with China is far more important than the strings attached. The newer block JF-17s are already on par with Block40 F-16s in terms of maneuverability. What they lack is Link 16 but that will be replicated soon. I think it's actually in Pakistans interests to put relations with US on the back-burner. India has nothing to offer US except act like a fake counter to china, which alone could swallow india if they wanted to.
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May 20, 2016 10:06am
Good. We don't want $450 million. This is peanuts. And if the government of Pakistan is going to sacrifice its morals and its interest for an amount that's .17% of our GDP, then the U.S. will push us around forever.
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May 20, 2016 10:33am
It is about time, that Pakistan realizes that enough is enough, and revamps its foreign policies. Track record of US-Pak relations shows that US has never hestitated from using Pakistan at the time of need, and ditching it once the interests are fulfilled; be it the cold war period, USSR-Afghan war or the post 9/11 'war on terror'. It is time to take confidence building measurments with India and find new friends in China, Russia, and Iran.
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May 20, 2016 10:36am
Can you please fight your war on your own ? we already had suffered a lot in greed of your always increasing demands'AID'...
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May 20, 2016 10:49am
Let US release the fund, actions can be managed.
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May 20, 2016 10:53am
The US wants civil war in Pakistan so that the country breaks up like Syria. We need to talk to Afghan groups. It's their internal disputeband we have no interest but to bring them together for talks. Pakistan can get high quality weapons from Russia.
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May 20, 2016 11:01am
And they will keep on black mailing us for their nefarious and un complete jobs. Please do not bow to their demands. We have done and sacrificed enough for the petty dollars . It is high time to have guts to say them No.
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May 20, 2016 11:02am
It would be a grave error to accept these conditions. It is nothing short of extortion, and blackmail.
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May 20, 2016 11:05am
Good move..
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May 20, 2016 11:08am
Pakistan has done more than what it should have to fight US war. It should refuse to accept any conditions to kill own people or compromise to seek funds which US is otherwise obliged to provide.
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May 20, 2016 11:12am
Well keep begging because a nation that has no self respect will never earn respect. Beggars are not choosers indeed...!
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May 20, 2016 11:13am
Abbottabad episode was a total drama and Shakeel Afridi was one of the actors.
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May 20, 2016 11:17am
War can never be own on begged arsenal. Pakistan should learn to respect herself to get respect from others. Pakistan has all the capabilities to be a developed country. It has a strong young population who can be trained and can do wonders in services industry. It has enough knowledge base and capability to create its own fighter plan of global standards. If the leadership has slightest self respect, they must reject this deal and manufacture their own fighter and show the world its capabilities. Manufacturing in the country will not only save valuable foreign exchange but also create jobs. It will also help to master the technology which can be sued for civilian use as well.
Don't Beg to anyone, rather find your capabilities and be confident on self.
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May 20, 2016 11:18am
The US can keep its money. If those who made billions out of this 'poor' country will show a grain of patriotism, the $450m can be raised in a day.
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May 20, 2016 11:19am
This has two effects on Pakistan: one negative the other positive. Negative: total failure of Foreign Policy in fact absence of it and the positive: we will learn to live on our own and for all times to come with dignity. I think this is the other change that we needed.
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May 20, 2016 11:22am
Why Pakistan always asks other countries for some aid? Why we are always on aid when our politicians have offshore companies and they do not pay taxes.
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May 20, 2016 11:27am
Releasing Afridi would ease a lot of resentment towards Pakistan
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May 20, 2016 11:45am
This is what Pakistan get after remaining good friend of US for 70 years.
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May 20, 2016 11:46am
Historically tested un-reliable ally of pakistan , I mean USA. The dictated financial aid should be rejected and look for alternatives.
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May 20, 2016 11:47am
pakistan is in trouble. You need to change dramatically to command any respect in the world and time is running out!
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May 20, 2016 11:47am
So the count down begins... keep watching this space for more....
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May 20, 2016 12:00pm
Pakistan will not agree to these demands and in the end more restrictions will come finally embargoes will come America is through with Iran now it is Pakistan's turn again...Pakistan will have to be on its own once for all and stop depending on other countries...
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May 20, 2016 12:00pm
Keep your conditions and the aid. Pakistan lost lives, suffered economic impact, it does not need peanuts from untrustworthy "friend" like USA which is busy arming Pakistan's enemies.
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May 20, 2016 12:03pm
Take these American congressional reps, senators, and media on tour of the area for them to identify the whereabouts of those renegade groups.
The congress works on 10% piece of the action! No cut, no aid.
The $dollar value is miniscule, not even peanuts. Why is it so difficult for PakGov to say, We don't want or need it. Especially in light of reality that 75% of Americans can't come up for $1000 in emergency times.
Unless all this borrowed money by American Govt is directly going into secret overseas bank accounts, and kickbacks to American officials.
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May 20, 2016 12:03pm
Please Pakistan Army destroy the haqqani terrorist. These terrorist can never bring peace in Pakistan.
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May 20, 2016 12:07pm
This is a welcome news. F16s along with J17s have been highly effective in defeating terrorists and keeping PAF combat skills at par. We must make sure that our friends in US congress keep their suppor. Pakistan must also strengthen it's security and economy to keep Indians at bay.
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May 20, 2016 12:09pm
Why Pakistan doing this dirty job for USA and Pakistan knows so many people of Pakistan going to die and so many killing will happen in side Pakistan no no no tell USA keep ur money
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May 20, 2016 12:18pm
Critically important that we become self-reliant. This can be easily achieved by uprooting corruption.
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May 20, 2016 12:24pm
A nation managed by people up to the level that entire political system is corrupt to the bone, even whose PM is deep up to the knees is corrupt and runs the country as a Mughul Empror keeps ministries within the family, practically visiting London every week, feels parliament attendance unworthy, whose political allies are people like of Mullah fazal, is blessed with opposition PPP party led by Zardari (see their activities in Sindh). What else one should expect. God save Pakistan.
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May 20, 2016 12:26pm
- Hussain Haqqani should be exchanged for Shakil Afridi.
- Elimination of Haqqani Network should be linked with complete eradicating of American drug traffic through Pakistan.
Quick and positive results would ensue.
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May 20, 2016 12:32pm
US has made its mind Pakistan is not important for their interests and makes new demands every day. Divorce is imminent but Pakistan must live as a dignified nation. Russia SU 34 is better option.
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May 20, 2016 12:34pm
Little new here. The only new thing is the inability of President Obama not to understand that power is slipping through his hands in the dying days of his Presidency. He should not allow Pakistan to be humiliated time and again in the Congress and should have taken out the items that offend the Congress. It is better to allow the next President to decide her/his own Pak policy after January 2017.
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May 20, 2016 12:35pm
Shakil Afridi in exchange of Aafia Siddiqui
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May 20, 2016 12:41pm
Pakistan is the greatest beneficiary of US aid, still the pakistani people are so anti american. It's strange. Yo need American help to survive, yet yo don't impose an iota of faith with the America.
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May 20, 2016 12:56pm
Nice.....God Bless America
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May 20, 2016 01:10pm
Decide whatever you like at US congress.
you will end up giving the aide. you cannot lose them as allies. can you?
China is sitting right behind them watching the show to swoop in when right.
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May 20, 2016 01:14pm
High time
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May 20, 2016 01:14pm
Pretty tough but long overdue. What Pakistan must understand is that by eradicating Haqqanis and Talibans, they will actually be helping themselves to get on the right path and secure their future. Pakistanis must look at Turkey to realise what they've been doing to themselves.
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May 20, 2016 01:19pm
"Might is right", if TTP operate from Afghanistan, Mulvi FazululAllah reside there no Issues but Haqqani Network, Once looked like the incestors of US president, this is highly shamable for US. Haqqani Network (if exsist) is not a new story specially when US is leaving Kabul, its the Chanies influence and Pak's help hurting US.
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May 20, 2016 01:25pm
Better late than never...
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May 20, 2016 01:25pm
Its a lot of bad name we are earning in the name of aid. Please, this is the time. Give up aid.
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May 20, 2016 01:33pm
When Nawaz Sharif will learn to have good relations with US. I dont see him completing his term this time as well. He should have learned something from past. From Adelaide 2
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May 20, 2016 01:43pm
Please send that aid to some country who need it more. We the people of Pakistan has never seen a dime of any aid what so ever and would kindly urge US not to use more time discussing this issue. We must forge our own future.
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May 20, 2016 01:47pm
Please keep your aid and let us live freely.
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May 20, 2016 01:48pm
I support this bill
withholding $450 m US aid is going to save $270 m of Pakistani tax payers to be spent on the jets
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May 20, 2016 01:52pm
@lafanga, If Trump is elected, USA will walk out of Afghanistan. He will concentrate on internal matters.
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May 20, 2016 01:53pm
@Zak , Nothing can be achieved by threatening or blackmailing.
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May 20, 2016 01:54pm
The loss of faith started with spotting Osama Bin Laden hidden in Pakistan
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May 20, 2016 01:55pm
@Zak so what is your plan zak to retaliate ?
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May 20, 2016 01:56pm
It is unfortunate that Pakistan is losing the support of USA.
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May 20, 2016 01:56pm
I don't see any problem for Pakistan, as, they have reserve of 21 Billion US dollar. Yes Politicians, will surly be effected as their share of money is blocked. No effect on Pakistan's economy.
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May 20, 2016 01:57pm
@lafanga Dont forget pakistan is not the only country which has boundaris with afganistan, there is another country called Iran, India and USA both will get access to Afganistan through Iran port chabhar..
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May 20, 2016 01:58pm
Friendship is broken when the faith is broken.
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May 20, 2016 02:02pm
@Zak
And what are those results?
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May 20, 2016 02:02pm
I somehow suspect, Pakistani side will be tempted and give in to these demands, and yet repeat the same pattern of naively entrusting the US again. Only to be discarded and abandoned when US has accomplished its aims, to clean up the mess left in the aftermath, as it has done numerous times in the past.
History is repeating itself before our very eyes.
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May 20, 2016 02:09pm
American arrogance will be their undoing. They have got no leverage over Pakistan to talk to us in this tone. 450 million? Is that a joke? Pak Suzuki is pledging the same amount to invest in Pakistan!
Pakistan need to cut the umbilical cord before these so called ties turn into open hostilities. Let them sulk and frustrate, let them enjoy their honeymoon with India, we in Pakistan are done.
Keep the focus on CPEC and build mutual inter dependencies with other powers to be.
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May 20, 2016 02:27pm
The US Government is not at all dependable on any account. Did they not applied their Veto first and foremost against our UN resolution on Kashmir? We must get rid of the US blackmail as soon as possible and start our accelerated efforts for self reliance. Begging peanuts at the cost of our national honor is much worse than death with honor.
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May 20, 2016 02:29pm
Should not compromise on national security and therefore a a big NO to USA Senate.
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May 20, 2016 02:33pm
Does the United States want Pakistani military to operate in Afghanistan ? Because the haqqani network is in Afghanistan !
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May 20, 2016 02:39pm
@Harish
Hahah
US getting access through Chahbahar....will be a joke of 21st century, thanks for entertaining us
By the way, US had access to Afghanistan through long and ardous route through Russia and central Asia, but they had to talk to Pakistan in the end
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May 20, 2016 02:42pm
protect your own self USA. we did not ask you to land your forces in Afghanistan.
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May 20, 2016 02:46pm
Its about time Pakistan rids itself from depending only on USA. Pakistan needs to work on its own independent policies. While fighting the then USSR, the USA worked with Talibans (as Allies). Now they term them as foes. We need to look at stability at home (post Afghanistan settlement), so if Pakistan feels the Haqqani's need to be treated Pakistan's way, then no need to get dictation from USA. The USA has turned Afghanistan (and Iraq/Egypt/Syria) into hell. Pakistan being immediate neighbor of Afghanistan is "most" hit/suffered. So we need to make our own policies that suits us best.
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May 20, 2016 02:51pm
Pakistan is moving upwards, no need US Aid. Just USA should leave Afghanistan.
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May 20, 2016 02:54pm
The French fighter Rafeale or Russian jet SU 35 is so much better and without any disabling devices, why are we so desperate for an outdated jet. Plus maybe the chairman of the house can monitor the supply line to the troops in Afghan once he has spent the devils lobby money.
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May 20, 2016 02:59pm
@Harish Access to Kabul via Iran runs through Taliban territory. Good luck unless you are planning to escort each delivery with tanks.
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May 20, 2016 03:01pm
To all my pakistani brothers who say USA need Afghanistan should understand USA may decide to leave Afghanistan anytime. So peace in Afghanistan is more important for Pakistan than USA.
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May 20, 2016 03:07pm
Where are the brilliant people who used to run America? They made it so great. No comparison with the present lot.
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May 20, 2016 03:08pm
So basically US wants to "buy" Pakistan for $450 million and do the following three things.
1) Go after the Haqqanis who have had no issue with Pakistan. They are not even in Pakistan since zarb e azb started.
2) Don't go after the Baluch separatists. This is in reference to the "minorities".
3) Release Shakil Afridi
Unless the US thinks value of Dollar has suddenly grown by hundred times, this will be a non starter from the beginning. Pakistan better learn from the lessons of the past and this time just move on and not rely on the US in future.
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May 20, 2016 03:14pm
Pak has cleared most of the mess(terrorists) created by US.
US has betrayed Pak and US forces has not cleared Afghanistan from TTP.
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May 20, 2016 03:14pm
@Bakhtiar well said best if be friend with SAARC Indand India and live happily, why we Indians and Pak people need to buy huge weapons from West just to kill each other?
Let kashmir be retained in present condition by each side and mark it solved. Let Kashmiris be have extra right to travel each other easily. Lets move forward in life towards education, development rather than asking aid from some other country to buy useless weapons.
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May 20, 2016 03:14pm
@Sachin Pakistan will bring peace in Afghanistan by helping our ally Afghan Taliban gain power and we will do it as soon as US leaves Afghanistan, India's influence will spiral downward once US leaves Afghanistan.
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May 20, 2016 03:17pm
New/old formula of economic hitman
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May 20, 2016 03:18pm
if it is really a pak own war then they should not rely on US. pak needs its own vision and mission .
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May 20, 2016 03:20pm
If Shakeel Afridi is their International Hero then they must immediately release Dr.Afia who is a better International Hero.
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May 20, 2016 03:22pm
Time to shake hands and go our separate ways once and for all - 40 yrs of an unequal relationship has meant short term cash for long term misery. Build a lasting progressive relationship with China focused on social uplift not cash handouts.
While at it, also build a productive trusting relationship with Iran and move out of GCC camp
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May 20, 2016 03:28pm
This will come out for the betterment of Pakistani people. Lesser bloodshed and more unity and peace in the region. This money was of no use for a common Pakistani ! Good move by US to let Pakistan live peacefully!
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May 20, 2016 03:30pm
@Waseem USA did not talk..they belive in action..
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May 20, 2016 03:32pm
Give and take. Take it or leave it.
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May 20, 2016 03:35pm
Pak must stand on its own feet whether for economic development or defense.
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May 20, 2016 03:36pm
You must realize where the US is coming from... They do not understand how you can have a terror group operating within your own country and you have no control over them. This just cannot happen in the US, they will crush them. I know there are gunfights and gangs in the US too, but they are small and fight amoung themselves. A terror they will wipe out very quickly...
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May 20, 2016 03:40pm
As long as there is money to me made for someone in Pakistan, this deal will go through, kicking and screaming. And next we will be left wondering 'why we gave in to the pressure'?
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May 20, 2016 03:54pm
I am 99 % sure that all the conditions including Dr. Afridi will be accepted by July end by Pakistan looking at the past track of foreign policies country had. In fact i don't see any other options they have.
Most probably we may have demonstrations in country against this like we used have for drone attacks.
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May 20, 2016 03:54pm
@AWADH it is in fact 21 million not billion
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May 20, 2016 03:55pm
@Harish Dont bank too much on US and Iran. Things are still pretty tough b/w US and Iran esp as Isreal is not happy with US abt it. Plus that route will be much longer as most of the insurgency is on the eastern side of Afghanistan which is more easily accessible from Pakistan's borders
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May 20, 2016 03:56pm
Pakistan needs friends not masters.
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May 20, 2016 03:57pm
Pakistanis have full faith in Pakistan armed force & its branches. The peoples of Pakistan will take care of the civilian government if they try to go off putting Pakistan at risk. As for american policy, Pakistanis are used to the roller coaster ride. Pakistan has to take care of its interest first. America will err if it decides to undermine Pakistan. Whatever little peace that has come to Afghanistan & elsewhere is the result of extreme sacrifices made by Pakistan & its peoples & its armed forces, america should not forget this.
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May 20, 2016 03:58pm
@KR But those who looted us are NOT patriotic, and won't be bringing back any of their ill gotten wealth!
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May 20, 2016 03:59pm
http://swarajyamag.com/world/us-places-india-up-on-defence-pedestal-and-gives-privileges-of-nato-allies
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May 20, 2016 04:09pm
@A Aziz No Sir, it's been the Pak Army boots on the ground, coupled with good intelligence, that helped clear Shawwal Valley, etc.
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May 20, 2016 04:10pm
The Pakistani public is united in kicking US backside. They have whipped and abused us so many times. Let us walk out of their camp. Let India be their whipping boy. Only White nations can be America's friends
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May 20, 2016 04:12pm
@M.Saeed So I suppose the American drug trade is the real reason behind the recent Torkham standoff! The new fence may disrupt the drug trade, I supposed.
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May 20, 2016 04:13pm
@Catalyst as if Russia is waiting with his wallet open to sponser the weapons
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May 20, 2016 04:15pm
@Debadutta NO we don't! A common Pakistani has received zero benefit from years of the U.S. aid. We care less.
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May 20, 2016 04:17pm
@vijayan The U.S. must understand that THEY are the ones who helped create these terror groups in the first place...
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May 20, 2016 04:21pm
@Debadutta and China making money from Pakistan, gave money at high interest rates, they pull out from projects as soon as they find not profitable, and still Pakistanis are happy.
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May 20, 2016 04:22pm
Can some body explain how much they are paying and how much they are holding up. I think people should be happy that they are reimbursing you the money you spend on cleaning your own home. If you want to clean it???
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May 20, 2016 04:28pm
" Do more" mantra....
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May 20, 2016 04:35pm
Let black water operate in Pakistan and they will be happy. Our past policies, right from the beginning, have ruined our dignity. Say goodbye to Uncle Sam, who is eating us like a termite. Lets unite all Muslim countries together and be the world power.
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May 20, 2016 04:40pm
@lafanga :-> An unstable Afghanistan is a problem to neighbor Pakistan and not to the US which is thousands of miles away.
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May 20, 2016 04:41pm
Time to move on.
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May 20, 2016 04:41pm
This is the result of doing someone else's dirty work.
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May 20, 2016 04:46pm
@Zak your government will not be happy to listen to what you are saying about India.
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May 20, 2016 04:48pm
@Sachin Thanks to its tremendous poppy production, the U.S. may never wish to leave Afghanistan.
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May 20, 2016 04:49pm
@Sachin That is why we are bringing Afghan Taliban to negotiations but Afghans being Afghans, they come when they want to come, no one can make them do anything. And to deal with the infrastructure build, we have invited China into the quadrilateral group as the replacing super power after US leaves Afghanistan.
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May 20, 2016 04:54pm
Keep the aid. Afridi will not be released.
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May 20, 2016 04:54pm
@awais says:-> Lets unite all Muslim countries together and be the world power.
This is a retarded statement. Grow up to a modern and cosmopolitan world. !!
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May 20, 2016 04:59pm
@Sami Shahid Yes they do! GREAT POINT!! Thank you for making it!
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May 20, 2016 04:59pm
@CATALYST- Russia is not listening and doubt would listen in near future
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May 20, 2016 05:02pm
@Skeptic I have a feeling that you are WRONG this time around! We have a good military leadership in place, and we are doing just fine :-)
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May 20, 2016 05:05pm
@Tamil Guru Pakistan has a very simple solution to Afghanistan when the US leaves. Close down all Indian consulates and reduce Indian presence just within it's embassy in Kabul. Disband the Afghan NDS and round up and finish all TTP goons holed up there. After that, Afghanistan will pacify itself in six months guaranteed.
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May 20, 2016 05:11pm
Lets just stop taking aids, and stand on our two feet. Political bully by a bully.
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May 20, 2016 05:14pm
Happy to see positive comments in the comments section. Pakistan needs to detach itself from self-centred and selfish US. If we do things right, we have a huge opportunity to become a world power. US will always align itself with India, who btw has never helped them in time of need. So, it's better we strengthen our ties with China and Russia.
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May 20, 2016 05:14pm
No Need!!! Pakistan can survive and develop without US aid.
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May 20, 2016 05:19pm
Please learn to stand on your own two feet.
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May 20, 2016 05:19pm
Pakistan can survive without this aid like in the past. There will be some difficulties in the war on terror but we will manage it. Anything outside the borders of Pakistan is the responsibility of that country and they should do the needful by themselves instead of making excuses and asking Pakistan's help.
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May 20, 2016 05:22pm
Pakistan needs to fight and eradicate terrorists from every single group for its own survival
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May 20, 2016 05:22pm
@Waleed Khan If the government of Pakistan had any morals, you wouldnt be waiting for aid from the US. Stop begging and learn to stand on your own feet.
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May 20, 2016 05:26pm
Instead of saying Thank you for the sacrifice of our brave soldiers and the death of innocent citizens, this is how US repays us. Their Millions are not enough for the lives of our brave soldiers. Pakistan senate should adapt a resolution to ban all US aid.
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May 20, 2016 05:32pm
@Maqsood says :-> No Need!!! Pakistan can survive and develop without US aid.
Don't just talk, do it !!
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May 20, 2016 05:38pm
An ego knocks at the door that please do come out of reliance and over turn submission.
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May 20, 2016 05:42pm
US has lost the war in Afghanistan. Just admit it!
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May 20, 2016 05:51pm
Its not about the Haqqani network, any leverage Pakistan had with the Taliban expired long back and its an open fact that all the splinter groups that Pakistan exercised control over have now moved over to IS . In this scenario Afghanistan and Pakistan's western border could well become another Syria in the years to come.
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May 20, 2016 05:55pm
REJECT conditions.
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May 20, 2016 05:56pm
@URMB says :-> US has lost the war in Afghanistan. Just admit it!
Whether US wins or not is not going to affect US in any big way. Sad to see Pakistan paying for it..
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May 20, 2016 05:58pm
WOW, now US has turned to blackmail in order to get their past mistakes corrected by Pakistan.
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May 20, 2016 06:00pm
The only way for this to be managed, is if the government succeeds in exchanging Afridi with Aafia. In that case the general public will accept Afridi's release with open arms otherwise it will become another case like Raymond Davis and will haunt the government and the military both. If not Aafia in exchange, no way can the military and already a weak government risk their support in the masses for this $450 million. And US administration must understand the ground realities.
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May 20, 2016 06:02pm
I strongly support no aid either financial, humanitarian or military for us from any fair weather friend so we can stand on our feet as blessing disguised.
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May 20, 2016 06:03pm
@Bakhtiar agreed enough is enough now time for Pakistan to say to good Taliban or good terrorist or strategic assets good bye.
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May 20, 2016 06:21pm
Sad affairs for Pakistan humiliation all the time for few pennies o self respect no honour and dignity in. Policy makers of this country
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May 20, 2016 06:32pm
@Changez_Khan
Do you have any PlanB?
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May 20, 2016 06:33pm
@Waleed Khan If all Pakistanis pays their taxes then then we don't need any charities from other countries
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May 20, 2016 06:40pm
@lafanga That is how we can also solve Kashmir issue but we do it what is right.
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May 20, 2016 06:54pm
We received about 50 billion dollars aid from US post September 11, this amount is pea nuts...
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May 20, 2016 06:57pm
@Zak : do you think Pakistan is there in the position to blackmail USA??
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May 20, 2016 07:00pm
Age old story: The US uses Pakistan for its own interests (yesterday it was Somalia and Afghanistan), today it is Afghanistan in exchange for promises of "aid". The "aid package" always turns out to be peanut amounts and somehow always ends up getting "stuck" in US red-tape. Meanwhile india has collected trillions of dollars over the last 70 years from the US alone in economic and military aid and the US media will purposely lie, calling Payments for Services Rendered as "aid to Pakistan".
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May 20, 2016 07:07pm
USA has maintained friendship with Pakistan since last 70 years. Likewise Russia always stood with India. Pakistan and India should be ever grateful to these friends, for having stood with them during their difficult times.
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May 20, 2016 07:26pm
what a farse! I think there is some proud left in pak blod, they don't respect the pak law and democracy.
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May 20, 2016 07:38pm
Tipical style of Uncle Sam to convey the massage across: To use strong language to suspend or block Aid begin with and later having a second thought and become conseletry, back track but while doing so Conditions imposed!!!!!
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May 20, 2016 07:39pm
United States and Pakistan shared "mutually" beneficial relations for over 65 years. US provided more aid to Pakistan than all the countries in the world combined. This historic partnership is "vital" for regional stability and world peace. Pakistan being the front-line state fighting global War on Terror, with 60,000 killed has suffered more than any other country. Yet, PM Nawaz Sharif's diplomacy has failed. Why do India, Afghanistan and Iran blame Pakistan for terrorism, when its the other way around?
US Congress concerns should be resolved. Invite Congressmen to visit FATA and see firsthand massive operation against all terror groups, including Haqqani network. Shakil Afridi helped get DNA sample of OBL, which embarrassed our government. So holding him does not help Pakistan, release him. In return, US can release Dr. Afia. PM Nawaz Sharif must take tough decisions in national interest. Pakistan wants friendship with all. Pakistan can be the leader for world peace and stability.
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May 20, 2016 07:42pm
This is a good warning to Pakistan's military establishment.
If the dependency on USA continues, the supply of jets
and spare parts can be blocked which will also make the
existing fleet inoperable. It is time to cut the cord. Diversify
the supply from reliable sources but more importantly
develop indigenous manufacturing which will be more
reliable in time of war.
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May 20, 2016 07:46pm
@Li-N-Ja
Do you even know how many parts go into fighter jets? And 90% of parts are exclusive with patents. You cannot copy them like China that has enough money for espionage to copy technology. Even India cannot make high end products, therefore is entering into contracts with US and Israel companies. The whole thing is; Pakistan has lost on confidence as OBL was found in Pakistan.
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May 20, 2016 07:47pm
@citizen considering that the foreign exchange reserves stand at $21 bn, calling an aid of $50 bn as peanuts is idiotic
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May 20, 2016 07:47pm
@Pakistan
You are so right
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May 20, 2016 07:49pm
@Patrick
If only people of Pakistan can understand.
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May 20, 2016 07:56pm
@Debadutta , American aid is just a fraction of Pakistan's GDP
and is mostly military hardware. People don't benefit from
this aid at all. The aid doesn't affect People's attitude.
USA provides the military aid to have influence with the
important institution in the country. Military has been
using American equipment, it continues to seek more of
it. Aid means nothing to the people.
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May 20, 2016 07:57pm
Time to dump US & move on. Ungreatful as always, US will never learn.
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May 20, 2016 07:58pm
Pakistan should look for other options..
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May 20, 2016 08:04pm
Pakistan should say thank you to US and its aid and mind their own business. Do we really need F-16 's after such treatment from US.
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May 20, 2016 08:05pm
Pakistan should refuse this humiliating aid and move on.
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May 20, 2016 08:06pm
@lafanga ... well said bro..
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May 20, 2016 08:07pm
pakistan thinks that he is ally/friend of US but US has always used pakistan as a mercenary.
India is busy in raising himself as a economic power, he don't want war, coz war will affect its economy a lot. moreover india thinks china is a great threat than Pakistan.
Pakistan is just to need to eliminate all terrorist groups and live happily everafter..
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May 20, 2016 08:11pm
US has not learned from destruction in Iraq Syria , Pakistan and Afghanistan. Meddling in others affairs through these heroes have led millions sleep of death.
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May 20, 2016 08:14pm
The term 'aid' is a misnomer. Nothing ever comes free. Uncle Sam has destroyed our economy by drawing our resources in external conflicts which were imposed on us by courtesy of our crazy dictators who accepted every US demand in return for the promotion and strengthening of their own rule. Delivery of F16 to Pakistan on subsidised price is based on conditions of Coalition's fund and US must not deviate from its obligation. Pakistan must not pay for these fighters regardless of whether it can spare money from its national fund.
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May 20, 2016 08:16pm
US would never dare doing anything close to this to India. They bend over backwards for India. Just the fact that US is putting humiliating conditions for peanuts aid (just $450 million) shows where Pakistan is seen by US.
India forced US to let go the diplomat who clearly had violated US laws. US actually gave in to India's reasonable demand.
Money hungry leadership in Pakistan have no self respect.
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May 20, 2016 08:16pm
why are Pakistan reluctant to take action against Haqqani network. Forget, the US aid. is it not in the interest of Pakistan to destroy the network of terrorists, which is harming their country. Pakistan too is victim of extremists, then why to support them in neighbour country?
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May 20, 2016 08:20pm
@vijayan You are very naïve about gangs in US. They have never been wiped out and they are there for long long time.
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May 20, 2016 08:21pm
Pakistan was pushed into fighting. And as far as I know it was the US army that pushed the taliban into Pakistan territory. They were the ones invading Afghanistan and in using their territory for their own political agenda and oil in Iraq. As far as deaths go the US is responsible for civilian casualties in Pakistan numbering over 60thousand via drones. When will the international courts of justice see that. Repetitively ditching Pakistan on flimsy grounds and then come crawling back or coercively facing Pakistan into a war it did not have. Had it not been these politicians hideouts in USA., a befitting answer would have come, but these are all self-serving public God's. They will all destroy Pakistan with their greed.
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May 20, 2016 08:26pm
We WILL progress much better without US
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May 20, 2016 08:55pm
@Catalyst
We need to self appraise and learn from our experiences with the US. We can not blame America for being treated unfairly, we have been getting what our leaders negotiated. Countries have their own interests and in future what we need to do is to structure our relationship with other countries more carefully and must be clear about our own interests in mutually beneficial relationships. We have strong relationship with China but must refrain from over- relying on that country. We should promote and value our relationship with USSR but not because we feel annoyed with the Americans.
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May 20, 2016 08:58pm
All drama, US knew where OBL was. Our politicians are willing to anything for a few dollars
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May 20, 2016 09:00pm
Stop begging. Either make financial resources available to buy or opt other alternatives.
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May 20, 2016 09:05pm
Please don't accept any funds from anyone. we can only get strong no one supports us.
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May 20, 2016 09:06pm
@Zak You are right America made a blunder here after so much sacrifices by Pakistan and its Awam for America. But Pakistan should stand up and refuse to take any help from America and refuse to accept, do more mantras. Pakistan lost enough, it should not keep repeating mistake of trusting US, it should switch to other close friends, you know whom I am referring.
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May 20, 2016 09:11pm
@MSN
Yes humiliation in a way but America is simply being cheeky and playing games with Pakistan as Pakistanis have stopped paying much attention to 'do more' mantra. Pakistan by now knows America more than any other country does and need not take it to heart when America makes certain statements which are more to appease India for some deal rather than any intention to embarrass Pakistan. India may be important from trade point of view but Pakistan's importance from security aspect should not be underestimated.
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May 20, 2016 09:16pm
As an American, I'm happy that our government had stop aiding Pakistan. It is a good lesson for them to stand on their own feet.
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May 20, 2016 09:35pm
All this humiliation just for 8 old planes?
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May 20, 2016 09:35pm
As an outsider, the demands seems very reasonable. 1. Act against terrorist, it will only improve your relationship with Afgans. 2. Release Dr. Afridi, the logic of his arrest was never understood by anybody outside Pakistan.
Pakistan have nothing to lose by this actions other than it's false Pride. Unfortunately this false sense of pride seems to be more important than everything else.
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May 20, 2016 09:38pm
The condition of Shakeel Afridi's release tied to the bill is an outrage and an attack on Pakistan's sovereignty. Pakistan should add a condition as well. If Afridi is so dear to the US, Pakistan wants the release of Afia convicted on totally spurious charges in return.
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May 20, 2016 09:48pm
If Shakeel afridi is your hero,Afia siddiqui is our hero, release that poor girl you raped and sentenced 80 years...
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May 20, 2016 09:50pm
Most of the comments are just emotional. When you say "killing own people" you probably think Taliban as your "own people" and not enemies ... this is the same kind of Good and Bad Taliban policy that is testing the patience of our "allies".
Offcourse, we have our interests in Afghanistan that cannot be exactly same as USA but banking on "Good" Taliban should not be our interest ... haven't we learned some things from our history after sacrificing 50,000 Pakistanis to the Taliban mind and their allies (TTP, SSP, JI, JUI, JuD) in Pakistan ?
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May 20, 2016 09:56pm
Islamabad is maintaining that it helped US in tracking down and killing OBL. If this is true then Afridi should be your national hero.
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May 20, 2016 10:20pm
Sounds very reasonable for $450 million.
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May 20, 2016 11:06pm
This aid will help PMLN,PPP nawaz zardari corrupt politicians Gov but shameful for Pakistan dont get any aid on the name of Pakistan People in Pakistan work so hard for Living without getting any help from Gov of Pakistan or any other Gov
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May 20, 2016 11:14pm
A lesson for Pakistan to stop depending on American aid. Pakistan should eradicate corruption and bring all the black money to Pakistan.
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May 20, 2016 11:14pm
@Kashmiri Nationalist You are strategically absolutely correct.
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May 20, 2016 11:53pm
Just 450 million dollars and so many conditions. USA has spent thousand of billion dollars but without any out put in broad scene. USA has troops here in the region, may spent 450 billion dollars to disrupt Haqqani network and arrest its personnel. Law makers of HOR should compare budget given to US troops and conditional aid giving to Pakistan. Feel the difference...
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May 20, 2016 11:57pm
@STAN
I agree Stan
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May 21, 2016 12:06am
@Faizan agree 100%!!!
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May 21, 2016 12:12am
@lafanga
wOW
Wonderul plan
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May 21, 2016 12:28am
Very good news. Now we as nation will be able to stand ourself. Those whoever supporting and keep relation with America are just remain under so much debt and slave.
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May 21, 2016 12:30am
@Pakistani agree, 100%
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May 21, 2016 12:33am
Sweden has held out an irresistible offer to India.
It has offered the manufacture of the Saab Gripen E fighter, the very latest one, in India under the "Make in India" program.
$$ buys stuff, never mind alliances old or new or whatever?:)
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May 21, 2016 01:04am
This is an abject failure of the Foreign Policy conducted by the PM himself.
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May 21, 2016 01:04am
Pakistan needs help in building Educational institutes, Agriculture and Transportation infrastructure not Military. Why are the Pakistani and US bureaucrats and politicization so blind?
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May 21, 2016 01:14am
@MA After getting hit hard in the stomach yes. What have we progressed with the US that we will do without?
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May 21, 2016 01:15am
@Erik Got 90 million US$ per Sukhoi or MIG then talk to Russia.
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May 21, 2016 01:32am
Dont worry, US needs Pakistan more than Pakistan needs US :-)
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May 21, 2016 01:38am
Do not give in to pressures!!
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May 21, 2016 01:49am
This is actually "Blessing in Disguise" if our politicians recongnise it (which I doubt)
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May 21, 2016 01:53am
First of all US has been effectively beaten and defeated and no matter Pakistan does the reality in Afghanistan cannot be changed and the same was the case in Iraq where US blamed Iran. It is US policies in both countries and in the ME for the fiasco and no one is responsible except US herself.
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May 21, 2016 01:57am
@Kashmiri Nationalist I agree India's role in the region and specifically in Afghanistan is counter productive to peace and stability in the region.
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May 21, 2016 02:08am
@Debadutta Not true at all and please check and recheck "your" facts and figures .We are the biggest loser and have lost so much siding US since cold war with Soviets to US war on this so-called terrorism. We have lost 60000 precious lives, lost production, destruction of roads, slow economic growth and infrastructure, social upheaval because of refugee and drug problem that is now permanent. The list is long and the benefits none.
US aid is a drop be drop in the bucket compared what Pakistan lost in this thankless friendship.
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May 21, 2016 02:25am
@krishna
In my view joint control of J&K by both nations would be more appropriate and acceptable to the two. Otherwise the present quagmire is unlikely to end and any further conflict will eliminate any chance of future reconciliation impossible for ever.
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May 21, 2016 02:57am
@KR BOLD statement!!!!!!!!!!
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May 21, 2016 03:42am
@Sarwar, USA.... If you so love Pakistan, book first available flight to your homeland...But you will never do it!!!
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May 21, 2016 04:05am
US has no choice but to give financial aid to Pakistan. US is not going to get anything from India and they know that.
What US is doing is just a pressure tactics.
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May 21, 2016 05:16am
@Zak you are smart than congress? They rule America,
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May 21, 2016 06:15am
@Talha;
'Why we are always on aid when our politicians have offshore companies and they do not pay taxes.'
The 'aid' we receive is in fact a minuscule portion of the loot that goes abroad.
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May 21, 2016 06:20am
@Debadutta;
'Pakistan is the greatest beneficiary of US aid'
False claim; India, Israel and Egypt all receive more aid than Pakistan.
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May 21, 2016 07:49am
Good riddance. Now hopefully Pakistan can finally hope to have an independent foreign and defense policy.
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May 21, 2016 09:03am
Educate the population with a strong science and engineering base and we would not be in this sad position.
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May 21, 2016 09:56am
All those considering US aid "Peanuts" and "Unnecessary" how about returning all the US aid received till now with interest to show some self respect. Err... i think that will be too much:)
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May 21, 2016 10:28am
@Zak Zak you live in the US and you call Afghan taliban your ally
Pray to god that PAK has to never live a day under a govt of Afghan taliban and don't ever wish that someone else has to even afghanistan
The Talibans, the IS, they are not humans
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May 21, 2016 10:38am
@Bakhtiar Russia will help you because you killed its soldiers during Afghan occupations? Also, Iran has a military deal with India since 2000's to allow India to use its military bases against Pakistan in event of war.
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May 21, 2016 11:14am
Pakistan is "committed" to be all weather friend to US, but China is spending $50 billion in Pakistan......., weather is changing, US is in Partnership with India...transfer of nuclear technology, Military industrial complex to India; Pakistan should focus on Civil industrial complex with China.
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May 21, 2016 01:07pm
It seems we are agree on all the disagreements so it would be in larger interest to stay away from United States diplomatically ! Stay closer to Other Supremo's. If one doors closed than the other might be loosen for opening a new era.
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May 21, 2016 01:55pm
Their is no other option for US as they will be out from the region without Pakistan, especially in the backdrop of ever increasing influence of Russia and China. Pakistan must wait before accepting any offer from US.
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May 21, 2016 02:29pm
@reader a valid question Pakistan does need Aid after it is paying off to be an Allie of US n Afghan war but seems that US congress needs to be reminded that this isnt Pakistans war its a baby they created in history to defeat Russians.
Pakistan is the only country to have accommodated huge insurgency of Afghan war so before you abruptly open your mouth kindly read history.
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May 21, 2016 02:45pm
If US congress is willing to put restriction on Pakistan, Pakistan need to raise the cost of transportation of goods to US forces in Afghanistan. US must be part of paying the cost of war on terror that it introduced in the region. If US will not pay transportation cost through Pakistan territory than such transportation of supplies to US forces must be stopped till US pay the full cost of delivering goods and supplies through Pakistan. The message is clear, share the cost of fighting terrorism or no supplies through Pakistan for US forces in Afghanistan.
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May 21, 2016 03:07pm
Take you 450 million dollars and your F 16 and just clear-off. This is the voice of Pakistan nation to the US Congress.
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May 21, 2016 03:44pm
The age old blackmailing, US wants us to do more.
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May 21, 2016 04:12pm
Best option for Pakistan is to keep working with State Department. The 4 requirements set by the congress are all manageable.
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May 21, 2016 04:47pm
Nobody talks about Haqqani network, everyone talks about US, India... Why is this network still pampered in Pakistan? Everyone knows what they do.
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May 21, 2016 05:09pm
"conditional ". Pakistan should be alert.
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May 21, 2016 05:20pm
US/West Double standards are not acceptable
Why No pressure on India to stop supporting TTP, Baluchistan, karachi terrorism activities.
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May 21, 2016 05:39pm
Is this the reason behind army's continued operation in North Waziristan? Are there no terrorists outside Waziristan and Karachi, why no action is being taken elsewhere?
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May 21, 2016 05:46pm
its a joke of there century! Fighting on their behalf for last 16 yrs and yet they want Pak to do more. There are no other professional and transparent military then Pak Arm forces and they have done everything for US . If hey want us to fight for them they have to pay the fee happily or get lost .
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May 21, 2016 05:47pm
They need to realize we are not Syria, Iraq or Libya. All due respect to those countries but we are not them. We are nice only when you are nice .
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May 21, 2016 05:49pm
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/US-lawmakers-seek-NATO-ally-status-for-India/articleshow/52371549.cms
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May 21, 2016 06:58pm
Hats off to senator Bob
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May 21, 2016 09:26pm
@Catalyst but that would be so if you or I had something to do with this sordid affair but in the hands of our "Gods", all you will hear is that "we have to keep them engaged"!
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May 21, 2016 09:39pm
Pakistan should give attention to its economic development and self sufficiency to produce its own fighter planes rather than looking towards USA for defense needs.
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May 21, 2016 10:42pm
@Catalyst are you going to woo russia now
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May 22, 2016 01:47am
It is so glaringly obvious that the USA is mortally scared of Pakistan; even after 9/11 and again the most wanted man protected by Pak. Army. Americaa; or who ever the person is for this dire lapse would personally be responsible for the terrible fall-out. All of these weapons; and so many more which they invariably have abandoned; each time they were defeated by foot soldie rs; and that was very often; especially with the current incumbent in the White House. and who on earth said that stupid thing that Pak Army doesn't rely on foreign aid?
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