US State Dept approves proposed $125m support programme for Pakistan’s F-16s
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The US State Department announced on Friday that the Trump administration is set to approve $125 million for Pakistan to provide technical support to its fleet of F-16 aircraft.
The proposed programme has already been given the go-ahead by the State Department and sent to Congress for approval.
The announcement followed Prime Minister Imran Khan’s ice-breaking visit to Washington earlier this week, which included a three-hour visit to the White House as well.
Read: 'An unintended PR win for Islamabad': What analysts, journalists had to say about PM's trip to US
During an unprecedented 47-minute joint press talk with the prime minister on July 21, US President Donald Trump also offered to mediate between India and Pakistan to help them resolve the 70-year old Kashmir dispute.
“The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Pakistan for Technical Security Team (TST) in continued support of the F-16 program for an estimated cost of $125 million,” said an official announcement released on Friday evening.
The US Defence Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification, notifying Congress of this possible sale on July 26, three days after the prime minister’s visit.
The government of Pakistan requested a continuation of technical support services, which includes US government and contractor technical and logistics support services. The request also includes other related elements of logistics support to assist in the oversight of operations in support of the Pakistan Peace Drive advanced F-16 program. The total estimated program cost is $125 million.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by protecting US technology through the continued presence of US personnel that provide 24/7 end-use monitoring,” the State Department said.
Also read: Imran Khan in Washington: He came, he saw, he conquered
“The proposed sale of this support will not alter the basic military balance in the region,” the statement added, in an effort to assuage possible Indian irritation.
The principal contractor for this support program is Booz Allen Hamilton Engineering Services LLC, Fairborn, Ohio.
Implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of 60 contractor representatives to Pakistan to assist in the oversight of operations as part of the Peace Drive F-16 program.
The US Defence Security Cooperation Agency informed Congress that “there will be no adverse impact on US defence readiness as a result of this proposed sale.”
This notice of a potential sale is required by law and does not mean the sale has been concluded.
Almost all such requests, however, are approved after a possible debate. In case Congress rejects the request, the administration can still use a waiver to provide the requested services.
All FMS support programs for Pakistan were halted by the Trump administration after accusing Islamabad of not helping Washington in achieving its objectives in Afghanistan. But during the prime minister’s July 20-23 visit to Washington, both sides announced they were now on the same page on Afghanistan.
The prime minister said that he would soon call Taliban leaders to Islamabad to persuade them to hold direct talks with the Taliban. President Trump thanked him for Pakistan’s support that enabled direct talks between US and Taliban delegations in Doha, Qatar.
Since the prime minister’s return, the Taliban have conveyed their willingness to visit Islamabad to meet Mr. Khan while President Trump has dispatched his top general and a senior diplomat to Kabul to brief the Afghan government.
Read more
On DawnNews
Comments (202) Closed
Jul 27, 2019 11:19am
Where do we get $125M?
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Jul 27, 2019 11:20am
Fruits of IK visit are already reaching . Well done captain.
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Jul 27, 2019 11:22am
Good. This will give nightmares to Indians. Thankyou Trump.
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Jul 27, 2019 11:27am
Sounds fishy knowing Trump. But seeing is believing, Maybe the General had some special words of praise for the American
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Jul 27, 2019 11:31am
What happened to isolating Pakistan?
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Jul 27, 2019 11:33am
Let's wait for bibi Maryam's hateful comments on this achievement. And let his papa also be heard that this is how diplomacy works.
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Jul 27, 2019 11:36am
A Foreign Military Sale of US 125 to cash -strapped Pakistan on one hand and the offer of mediation on the other.With businessman Trump,first and foremost is cash inflows and self contradictions are never ending.
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Jul 27, 2019 11:37am
Great news for halted military expenditures.
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Jul 27, 2019 11:37am
We don't really need it, we need tariff free access for some exports
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Jul 27, 2019 11:40am
@Akram, read carefully..”..Implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of 60 contractor representatives to Pakistan to assist in the oversight of operations as part of the Peace Drive F-16 program.”..so no more using F16s against US wishes!
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Jul 27, 2019 11:41am
150 million dollar for one F-16?
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Jul 27, 2019 11:41am
Imran Khan has hit the top priority area for the defence of Pakistan. We have to keep our Air Force fully operational and that's the right move.
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Jul 27, 2019 11:43am
@Akram,
This at what cost?Iran is there for US to use pakistan
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Jul 27, 2019 11:44am
When Pakistan is going to stand on it's own.. Instead of seeking financial help.. Wake up Pakistani.. See Bangladesh is moving to developed nation and they are aiming for the same.
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Jul 27, 2019 11:45am
Good going.
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Jul 27, 2019 11:46am
These are rewards for releasing indian pilot and showing peace gestures and aborting a full scale war. Congratulations for turning the tide.
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Jul 27, 2019 11:46am
Beautiful PM of beautiful people of beautiful Pakistan established 'veni, vidi, vici'.
Yes he conquered Trump, and his influence on the latter bring about a friendship not only with Xi of China, but also Putin and all other important world leaders. In a very short period of time, he became a colossus and an international statesman of par excellence. Pakistan is going to become World No. 2 status sooner than expected. It is very much possible that Imran Khan is awarded Nobal Piece Price.
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Jul 27, 2019 11:48am
@Akram, “..isolating Pakistan ..” with incompetent and Modi friendly Pakistani politicians like Nawaz Sharif gone forever, Pakistan isolation will never take place.
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Jul 27, 2019 11:50am
@Akram, what happened to "we don't need usa"?
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Jul 27, 2019 11:51am
@Akram, read carefully..”..Implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of 60 contractor representatives to Pakistan to assist in the oversight of operations as part of the Peace Drive F-16 program.”..so no more using F16s against US wishes!
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Jul 27, 2019 11:53am
Selling $125 million.
Securing their Afghan commitment.
Assuring control use by 24x7 surveillance.
Assuring that regional balance maintained.
America really played all three nation wisely.
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Jul 27, 2019 11:53am
Congratulations. Pakistan finally have F 16.
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Jul 27, 2019 11:55am
Excellent news! Hope the $125 Million paid to service the F16 fleets will help end the poverty in the country.
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Jul 27, 2019 11:56am
@Akram, what happened to we don't need US war toys ?
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Jul 27, 2019 11:59am
Whose help is this Pak or USA??
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Jul 27, 2019 12:03pm
Any one who talks bad for IK actually has no love for Pakistan.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:03pm
If you take US money, you have to fight their war.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:05pm
Anti Pakistan indians must be crying.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:05pm
@Akram, India has miserably failed in isolating Pakistan. Pakistan's policy of keeping proxies to fight with india and Afghanistan has paid off nicely. Pakistan has been handsomely rewarded for its non state actors. Win Win for Pakistan.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:08pm
@MG, Let the government worry about it. You'll know it when we get the equipment.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:08pm
what will the 60 US personnel that will be funded by the USD 125 million amount be doing? monitoring how the F-16 get used?
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Jul 27, 2019 12:13pm
@MG, Where do we get $125M?"
Most probably US will provide this fund after the congress approval. However, this will be a small price to US compared to what Pakistan has been tasked with in AFG.
Exciting years ahead as Pakistan will be riding a Tiger as IK has assured that he will 'Do everything' in AFG. All the best.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:15pm
@Surya Kant , the word you're looking for is "already has"
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Jul 27, 2019 12:17pm
please do not take this we are already going very well without us
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Jul 27, 2019 12:19pm
A slao on Indians face whose wanted to isolate us are infact themselves isolated!
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Jul 27, 2019 12:20pm
$ 125 million only ?? and it is for aircraft...!!!...Captain should have asked US to get any Business deal or export discounts or to ask some help to get rid off from debt issues.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:20pm
America always funds Pakistan massively during the times of dictatorship. From Ayub, Zia to Musharraf the story is same. This is the time of civilian dictatorship and American love affair is again starting. Anyway these aids will keep Pakistan dependent on foreign programs and weapons. But the naive supporters of PTI will appreciate it and will consider it a huge triumph. It is a good trick of USA for the countries like Pakistan. In my view PAF should concentrate on JF 17 project, but unfortunately that project will not bring foreign training programs and long term residency visas in America for the most patriotic.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:24pm
US is THE most cunning country in the world, specially under Trump.
As PM-IK has laid himself down in his speech, he will get some token benefit but will have to prove his support to peace with Taliban. There could be more internal strife with Taliban who are feeling betrayed by Pakistan.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:24pm
With 24×7 monitoring for peaceful use. US is all-out to do something in afganisthan if peace proposal fails. It's equipping Pakistan for upcoming battle.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:25pm
ik seek alms
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Jul 27, 2019 12:25pm
Weapons are more important then giving relief to the poor.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:26pm
Will the spares be available at the old rates quoted, just impacting the prices by the devaluation of the rupee factor, or have these been doubled in US Dollar terms as well?
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Jul 27, 2019 12:27pm
Wait for habitual crying voices from Indians now.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:32pm
Great -- now alms from United States for Pakistan -- and now pakistanis will call this "investment"
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Jul 27, 2019 12:33pm
Good luck , now forget Russian help.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:36pm
Great. If Pakistan is going to pay for these it’s good. Better than importing iPhones for the rich. But still glad that for a bankrupt country 125 million dollars are going into this. Best wishes.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:41pm
A Foreign Military Sale of US $125 m to cash-strapped Pakistan and the offer of mediation on the other ! With businessman Trump first and foremost is cash inflows and never mind endless self contradictions.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:46pm
Now Pakistan must forget China & Russian alliance.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:46pm
Pakistan has chosen to be ally of US and not of China and Russia.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:47pm
@Raja, Each and every country in the world needs USA one way or another.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:48pm
Imran has taken U-turn on alliance with China and Russia.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:50pm
@Akram, read carefully..”..Implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of 60 contractor representatives to Pakistan to assist in the oversight of operations as part of the Peace Drive F-16 program.”..so no more using F16s against US wishes!
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Jul 27, 2019 12:50pm
Pakistan-US relationship good days are back.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:51pm
So let us understand: pakistani "engineers" and "scientists" can design and manufacture JF 17s and Hatf missiles
But but, wait for it: pakistani engineers and scientists cannot provide technical support for their own air force aircraft even after 35 years of acquiring the F16s from USA?
Is there anything that pakistan can do by themselves? -- why is pakistan always asking China or Saudis or Emiratis or Qataris or Americans for help? -- is there anything that pakitanis can do by themselves?
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Jul 27, 2019 12:52pm
USA will take the Funds from the US military assistance Program which was suspended in 2018 and has now been revived due to PM Khan
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Jul 27, 2019 12:54pm
What is the reaction from China, Russia and Afghan-Taliban on Pakistan-US relationship?
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Jul 27, 2019 12:55pm
pakistan got these F16s from USA in 1983 -- it is 2019 -- and pakistan still needs USA's technical help to maintain these aircraft?!
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Jul 27, 2019 12:55pm
Why Pakistan is buying arms when most of its population is in poverty, disease, malnutrition etc.?
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Jul 27, 2019 12:56pm
This means jf17 is inferior against f16.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:58pm
Indians repeat after me: no power on earth can undo Pakistan.
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Jul 27, 2019 12:59pm
From where will you get 125 million dollars?
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Jul 27, 2019 01:02pm
@Raja: the equation is slightly different now, US needs Pakistan so why shouldn't we do business with them.
Feeling sorry for India though. They couldn't get an upper hand against Pakistan in February even when US was supportive of them. How about now??
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Jul 27, 2019 01:03pm
@MG, You get it from USA.
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Jul 27, 2019 01:03pm
The more Pakistan moves nearer to US the more it moves farer to China-Russia.
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Jul 27, 2019 01:03pm
@MG, this is US govt paid AID to US manufacturer.
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Jul 27, 2019 01:06pm
Have you read the statement 24x7 monitoring. USA has made sure pakistan dont use the f16 without their knowledge. Is this something to rejoice..
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Jul 27, 2019 01:07pm
Does Pakistan have control over Afghan-Taliban or not?
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Jul 27, 2019 01:13pm
@Semaak, 100% Indians because we all are
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Jul 27, 2019 01:16pm
That's pretty good news for Pakistan. Hoping that Daily Urdu newspapers will elaborate this newspapers after getting from Dawn news. Dawn is superior newspaper among all Pakistani Newspapers
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Jul 27, 2019 01:17pm
I think its clear from the visit, America knows it was losing its influence with Pakistan- building stronger geo political and economic relationships with Russia and china.
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Jul 27, 2019 01:22pm
These offers are given by US to Pakistan so that Pakistan will help US & Afghan-Taliban peace deal, US believes that Pakistan can help US & Afghan-Taliban peace deal.
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Jul 27, 2019 01:23pm
Pakistan need to stand on their own rather than asking other countries.
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Jul 27, 2019 01:24pm
@salman, it will in fact give nightmares to 22 million out of school children
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Jul 27, 2019 01:25pm
@salman, brother did u notice the line " for 24 x7 end user monitoring"
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Jul 27, 2019 01:25pm
$125 M! That will be the cost of few lights of F-16!
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Jul 27, 2019 01:31pm
@Arif Patel, The biggest isolation is economic isolation.Look at the economic situation of Pakistan.There is hardly any real foreign investment coming into Pakistan.Pakistan lose 50bn$ of its gdp in last one to two year.The FATF is one of isolation against Pakistan use of non state actors.Pakistan is losing more than its gaining.In long term India will be many times more powerful .
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Jul 27, 2019 01:32pm
Half of 270 million deferred oil payments goes into non developmental expenses. Congratulations orange man.
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Jul 27, 2019 01:32pm
Pakistan has got Win-Win deal with US.
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Jul 27, 2019 01:33pm
@salman, Since when did an amount like $125m become significant. Our metro rail coaches and stations cost more. As a matter of fact, even yours do.
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Jul 27, 2019 01:36pm
Why to spend loan money in 30-40 years old planes? Instead buy new.
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Jul 27, 2019 01:39pm
@Akram, why they choose to support F-16 ahead of everything else? If they seriously trust Pakistan then they should start releasing what you call coalition support fund (fancy name for blood money), instead they're helping to maintain F-16 after one of it downed by mig-21
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Jul 27, 2019 01:40pm
US does it again. It understands it's own interests only. This financial support is for carryout fight in Afghanistan, in which US is more than interested.
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Jul 27, 2019 01:42pm
@Imtiaz Karim (Berlin), we are not crying but happy as US will get $125 million from Pakistan.
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Jul 27, 2019 01:45pm
This program is for upgrading of radar and missile systems. That’s what Pakistan needs at the moment. Next shall be F35 induction in PAF.
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Jul 27, 2019 01:46pm
Trump is only after money
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Jul 27, 2019 01:48pm
@salman, Is $125 M is a nightmare for $4 trillion economy?
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Jul 27, 2019 01:57pm
Do you guys know what this means? It means greater US control on your weapons and you are exulting?
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Jul 27, 2019 01:58pm
Tangible results of PM Imran Khan's recent visits to US are beginning to pay the dividends that previous governments failed to resolve outstanding issues. This is a clear example of strong and honest leader, who cares about poor people and Pakistan. Well done PM and COAS!
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Jul 27, 2019 01:59pm
If a news had a dislike button then there would have been 1.3bn dislikes to this news.
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Jul 27, 2019 02:03pm
@Akram, read carefully..”..Implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of 60 contractor representatives to Pakistan to assist in the oversight of operations as part of the Peace Drive F-16 program.”..so no more using F16s against US wishes!
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Jul 27, 2019 02:04pm
@Yaqoob, Its simple, US wanted Pak to do something, Pak wasnt, so US stepped on its tail. Now Pak is doing everything it wants, so if you think about it, its a win for US not the otherway around!
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Jul 27, 2019 02:05pm
@Fastrack, "Indians repeat after me: no power on earth can undo Pakistan."
Ok. Repeating. No power on earth can do Pakistan. Seriously, what Pakistan is doing to itself, no one can do.
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Jul 27, 2019 02:17pm
@Naeemullah , This program is for upgrading of radar and missile systems. That’s what Pakistan needs at the moment. Next shall be F35 induction in PAF."
Great Idea, borrow money from China and buy US's F-35.
When you buy give some to Turkey also
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Jul 27, 2019 02:17pm
Great, wonderful and penetrating move by the U.S. State department, pre-emptying and shattering the hopes and aspirations of the war mongering, hegemonic, eccentric, caste-ridden, racist, bigot, liar, prejudiced and biased "movers and shakers" of New and Old Delhi.
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Jul 27, 2019 02:18pm
@rehan, it’s passed by Congress as well. Let’s give credit where it’s due. Well done IK and Asif Bajwa
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Jul 27, 2019 02:18pm
I thought some cash will come , it coming in kind.
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Jul 27, 2019 02:20pm
Yrsterday u people were praising Erdogan that he will buy other aircraft if us does not deliver them f35, and now u people are rejoicing. Thats why u people are callrd hypicrates.
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Jul 27, 2019 02:20pm
@Usuk Cheniland, F16's are for defence and that is good enough in case of a full blown war then everything goes.!!!
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Jul 27, 2019 02:21pm
Well done leader of Pakistan! You achieved your objective from the visit, while Imran Khan was able to replenish his ego by appearing before his Pakistani American devotees, those who've left Pakistan behind and are unaffected by their idol's policies, or the lack thereof.
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Jul 27, 2019 02:21pm
@Anup, US is giving 125million to Pak
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Jul 27, 2019 02:22pm
@Akram, Polio only exists in Pakistan and three other nations in the world.
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Jul 27, 2019 02:23pm
@Raja, What happened is we will deal with anyone who is sincere and friendly with us.!
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Jul 27, 2019 02:26pm
@rehan, COAS got a 21 gun salute from the Pentagon. That speaks loud and clear!
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Jul 27, 2019 02:28pm
@Raja, kind of like dessert after food. You don't need it but you still like it. Now instead of replying to a question with a question try an answer.
What happened to isolating Pakistan?
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Jul 27, 2019 02:29pm
IK's dividend from the very first successful US visit.
But we expect PML-N trolls and PPP rejects to also find some fault in this development - that NS could not garner during his three unsuccessful terms in office and as many US visits.
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Jul 27, 2019 02:37pm
peanuts
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Jul 27, 2019 02:44pm
Shallow celebrations by clueless PTI fools. It’s a bait to IK to join US and its Arab friends to tighten the noose against Iran. If we foolishly jump into the trap, we will be totally surrounded by hostile countries. We will enter another 20 years of warfare which will totally ruin Pakistan. Iran is a friend we should not betray it. America is not a friend and it has always betrayed us. We have already lost our peace and progress for USA. According to Americans we have received about $30 billion over last 15 years. But our cost for fighting their wars is well above $120 billion plus loss of life and infrastructure.
Are we going to be fooled again? Regrettable, seems.
People of Pakistan should know.
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Jul 27, 2019 02:51pm
Something tangible has been demonstrated by USA to Pakistan...now its Pakistans turn.
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Jul 27, 2019 02:56pm
@salman, you guys love to dream as you have been brought up in a dream world by all your previous governments. 3 war defeats and shameful breakup have still not woken you up. Wait for disappearance.
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Jul 27, 2019 03:02pm
This is how it starts, then in a few years you will say..again..we should have never been involved, we have paid a high price to do US dirty work. Good luck!
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Jul 27, 2019 03:05pm
It is Business. We are paying for every component and service. As per the sale agreement signed by PAKISTAN and USA. They are giving us no favors. Instead they were not obeying the agreement signed.
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Jul 27, 2019 03:09pm
@Falcon1, Its simple, US wanted Pak to do something, Pak wasnt doing it, so US stepped on its tail. Now Pak is doing everything it wants, so if you think about it, its a win for US not the otherway around!
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Jul 27, 2019 03:13pm
@Malik Saab, well said. A good understanding and comprehension of the situation and its repurcussion is what educated people ned to understand. Sadly there are very few in our countries and most love rhetorics. Much more in PTI.
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Jul 27, 2019 03:18pm
@Nand, yes because in Pakistan no one cares about the masses whether they live or die. But the armed forces are everything they own and rule this country one-way or the other so what they want matters a lot.
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Jul 27, 2019 03:20pm
Really conquered ,a very
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Jul 27, 2019 03:25pm
Sudden uturn from "we dont need US" to "thank you US"
Funny indeed... This shows how we prepare our citizen for any news that may happen.
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Jul 27, 2019 03:25pm
@SHAHID SATTAR , USA there is no free or concessional meals. At this price you will get half of your requirement taking into account the devalued PKR the amount is a pittance but PTI likes to overplay to show how successful was their visit. U turns will come shortly
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Jul 27, 2019 03:36pm
'24/7 end-user monitoring' .... does anyone realize what it means? would somebody explain it to a layman ??
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Jul 27, 2019 03:38pm
@salman, we are among the fastest growing economies in the world , and that too with out relying on aid or any help from other countries. Your country today has to figure out where’s to find the moolah for parts to fit an end of life aircraft. Sure pal! we are the ones with the nightmares.
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Jul 27, 2019 03:40pm
Huge victory. Single handedly accomplishment by PMIK. Best leader of the past 100 centuries. Lucky to have him as the commander in chief of all institutions. Salute you sir
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Jul 27, 2019 03:41pm
Pakistan has always been America’s bunny .. nothing new here . History doesn’t help them at all.
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Jul 27, 2019 03:46pm
Back to square one. Pakistan in chains again.
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Jul 27, 2019 03:49pm
In order to get this support, Pakistan is supposed to pay $125 million, for sustaining its peace program (if US senate approves this).
If you read carefully, nowhere they have mentioned that, Americans are going to support this program at free of cost.
Looks like it is just a 'Feel good situation'. Nothing is free in today's world.
How PMIK government will pay $125 million to US?
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Jul 27, 2019 03:49pm
Pakistan now ready to land Pakistanis on the Moon by 2020 with sweeter than honey iron brother Chinas rocket.
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Jul 27, 2019 03:54pm
@Kramer Khan, ; what do you expect from s nation with a literacy rate of 54%
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Jul 27, 2019 03:56pm
For all those Indians who think that 24x7 end use monitoring is some kind of impediment for Pakistan, have you bothered to wonder that if this were true, why would Pakistan have asked for the resumption of this kind of assistance and be willing to pay for it?
24x7 end use monitoring is a standard part of all US military sales of sophisticated equipment, and is eagerly sought by buyers of US equipment because it helps in ensuring that the highly complex elements of US military goods such as F-16s (especially their avionics) are working as they should. Such logistical service support will help Pakistan ensure that its F-16s remain at their deadliest best. This is why this was amongst the first things Pakistan asked for and was willing to pay for. This is really good news for PAF (Pakistan Air Force) given how important its fleet of F-16s will be for the next few years, and really bad news for anyone who may have been planning to take on PAF.
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Jul 27, 2019 04:01pm
The first thing Pakistan gets is security related
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Jul 27, 2019 04:21pm
where is over combat support fund we have to repair our damages, build houses of internally displaced families and schools and hospitals. Return Afghan refugees being burden since decades.
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Jul 27, 2019 04:22pm
Its simple, US wanted Pak to do something, Pak wasnt doing it, so US stepped on its tail. Now Pak is doing everything it wants, so if you think about it, its a win for US not the otherway around!
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Jul 27, 2019 04:26pm
Great, timely and penetrating move by the U.S. State Department of approving the proposed $125 million support and service program for the feet of PAF fighter/bomber F-16 aircrafts might have been instrumental in bringing a wave of great depression and anxiety in the corridors of power at New and old Delhii?
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Jul 27, 2019 04:33pm
Imran has kowtowed to the great Trump
what a country
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Jul 27, 2019 04:38pm
Now it will give sleepless nights to Modi. Well done IK
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Jul 27, 2019 04:48pm
Another arm sell by USA. One more financial load on Pakistan
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Jul 27, 2019 04:52pm
@Imtiaz Karim (Berlin), True.!
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Jul 27, 2019 04:53pm
The carrot is being offered now; expect the stick soon
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Jul 27, 2019 04:55pm
@MG, its an aid which IK denounced as the problem of Pakistan economies ill-health.
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Jul 27, 2019 04:58pm
If there was a dislike button for this news then there would have been 1.3bn dislikes to this news article.
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Jul 27, 2019 05:13pm
@salman, Yes this dealing will be a nightmare to Pakistan itself
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Jul 27, 2019 05:18pm
Many Pakistanis seem to think the USD 125m is aid. Pakistan pays this amount (pittance, but not so there) for the work done on the planes.
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Jul 27, 2019 05:23pm
In this world nobody can isolate anybody. Depends on requirements always someone will comes close to other. USA may be super power but he can't solve problem of Afghan. Pakistan location is godgifted hopes its utilities for benefit of humanity.
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Jul 27, 2019 05:24pm
@Adnan Mazher Khan, Bangladesh Forex US$ 30 billion, Pakistan US$ 7 Billion, about $ 6 billion fine to be paid
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Jul 27, 2019 05:26pm
So Pakistan has 20 F-16s that will be monitored by 60 spies 24×7.
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Jul 27, 2019 05:27pm
Invite American scientists technicians to produce every part in pakistan on handsome salary. America did it by getting German know how after WW2.
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Jul 27, 2019 05:27pm
The $125 will be paid to the American Contractors for providing f-16 related services to Pakistan Military. No money will come to Pakistan.
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Jul 27, 2019 05:28pm
$125 Mil are under Foreign Military Assistance program, Pakistan is not paying for them. here is the HOOK, 60 contract personnel are from Lockheed Martin, part of original deal when these planes were sold to Pakistan to keep an eye on them, basically keep the latest avionics technology falling into Chinese hands. 125 Mil actually goes back to Lockheed Martin coffers. Its basically a smoke screen to show Pakistanis that Americans resume the aid but its not, American contractors are back at work in Pakistan and $125 Million are for their service salary.
When Trump suddenly pulled the plug on the entire $1.2 Billion aid package, contractors have to leave so no one to keep an eye on latest Block 52 F-16s.
Pakistan does not need technical assistance or logistic support on these machines we have been flying them for decades, first thing US did to show their good will gesture is to protect their own interest by sending in their own contractors to make sure their interest is protected
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Jul 27, 2019 05:30pm
Now the purpose of visit comes out. Ads ads ads
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Jul 27, 2019 05:31pm
@Falcon1, kindly stop this childish political divide. Let Pakistan stand as one.
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Jul 27, 2019 05:36pm
60 contractor from US will be monitoring end use of F-16s
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Jul 27, 2019 05:52pm
US personnel will be in Pakistan to 24-7 monitor the planes. And you guys are happy. US is always 100 steps ahead than anyone else. What happened to brother China btw
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Jul 27, 2019 05:57pm
Mr Trump, go easy, our neighbour is hyper ventilating and on life support. Their entire media is on Valium.
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Jul 27, 2019 05:58pm
Well, well , whatever happened to that tight embrace, Modi holding tightly, perplexed Donald Trump ? On the other hand, there was just a firm handshake by Imran K.- Modi does n't understand diplomatic protocols especially in western culture two leaders only limit formalities to a shaking hand.
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Jul 27, 2019 06:02pm
Basically 60 aircraft mechanics got jobs in Pakistan for a year. They won’t update the F16s or make any modifications, just look after the planes that are old and obsolete technology wise. They won’t do anything that PAF mechanics could not do. Very bad deal, Pakistan just gave away $125 million for nothing
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Jul 27, 2019 06:17pm
Who would cough up 125 $ M ?. What would the 60 Americans do? Who will pay them? Looks like smart move by the US TO control the Pak air force. As usual, park armed forces love the US as most sons/ relatives of the Pak generals live, work and study in the US.
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Jul 27, 2019 06:19pm
Wow! Taking 125M from a poor country to keep 60 pairs of eyes on their f16s.
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Jul 27, 2019 06:23pm
Where is the NAB now?
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Jul 27, 2019 06:37pm
@MG, we beg from them again.
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Jul 27, 2019 06:50pm
Indians are you commenting? Your existence revolves around Pakistan
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Jul 27, 2019 07:07pm
@MOHAN, america is in no one's side it is one it own side. we are carefully you also be careful. if we unite we can make america irrelevant.
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Jul 27, 2019 07:07pm
$125m are for spare parts for F-16 and services. For services provided by Pakistan. This is a transactional relationship after all.
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Jul 27, 2019 07:09pm
@Zulfiqar, "@Anup, US is giving 125million to Pak"
I was hoping for a few billions though.
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Jul 27, 2019 07:12pm
@Akram,
Do you really think Pakistan is included in world.
Trump talked highly of Kim of North Korea. He was praising Putin and Xi. You keep how sincere he is
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Jul 27, 2019 07:12pm
@forget, "Now Pakistan must forget China & Russian alliance"
Now both China and Russia will be disappointed. Specially Russia. Putin was so eager to be friends with PM IK.
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Jul 27, 2019 07:22pm
Khan's efforts at diplomacy starts to pay dividends! Progress...
Gordon D. Walker
Canada
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Jul 27, 2019 07:35pm
Certainly Pakistan's rich allies in middle east will help out financially. Pakistan is helping them militarily for security in their countries with military manpower so there has to be some form of payback. Washington will be happy as long as middle Easts oil rich government continue to buy more arms for themselves or for allies and buy post sales support to support US arms industrial sales, a critical source of US earnings.
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Jul 27, 2019 07:39pm
The US trip succeeded! The establishment came back with bigger egos and empty pockets.
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Jul 27, 2019 08:35pm
Pakistan must have bilateral relations with all her neighbors countries especially China. A good foreign policy seldom have preferences except the proven friends. In our case China.
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Jul 27, 2019 08:59pm
It's just continuation of about to expire or expired US-Pakistan F-16 operations agreement made years ago. It is money paid by Pakistan to US contractors for stationing US personnel in Pakistan to oversee F-16 missions. Pakistan cannot legally continue operating its F-16s without paying the $125M. Since it is an overseas military sales controlled by ITAR the US Congress has to approve it. So this means that US Congregational approval and consequently Pakistan's ability to operate its own F-16s will depend on what Pakistan delivers in Afghanistan.
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Jul 27, 2019 08:59pm
@Usuk Cheniland, Don’t celebrate yet! If needed, as proven, Thunder jets are enough to down anything neighbors have to send our way.
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Jul 27, 2019 09:28pm
@salman, I don't think the 60 odd F16 can give nightmares to Hindustan. Yes, they can do a little damage but nothing we can't absorb. Perhaps the Raffel we are getting from France can change whole scenario. Let hope it doesn't come to that. Both countries have better and more urgent things to do, like uplifting our people from the poberty trap.
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Jul 27, 2019 09:32pm
Do everything for only 125 million, Trump got a great deal.
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Jul 27, 2019 09:36pm
Now economy kaha hai
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Jul 27, 2019 09:36pm
Buying a car and get a service for that is considered as a great achievement is seen in Pakistan only.
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Jul 27, 2019 09:37pm
I repeat my question: what happened to isolating Pakistan?
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Jul 27, 2019 09:49pm
Instead of spending money on these weapons, Govt. should focus on much important problems e.g Education, Health, Human Development. These are basics rights which should be focused.
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Jul 27, 2019 10:20pm
@MG, "Where do we get $125M?" - It is not the money they are offering - it is the technical support, any visits by technical experts, any spare parts, any troubleshooting etc. and $125 million isn't that big of an amount for that sort of purpose.
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Jul 27, 2019 10:25pm
@Shami, no one received Pakistan PM at US airport and now US will get $125 millions by sale from Pakistan.
Who's isolated then ?
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Jul 27, 2019 10:27pm
"The proposed programme has already been given the go-ahead by the State Department and sent to Congress for approval."
Don't jump the gun yet Pakistani people.
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Jul 27, 2019 10:39pm
Ik is best
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Jul 27, 2019 10:53pm
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by protecting US technology through the continued presence of US personnel that provide 24/7 end-use monitoring,” the State Department said.
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Jul 27, 2019 11:31pm
When will we invest in our own growth and not depend on US and China.
This is very painful to read
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Jul 28, 2019 02:23am
Congratulations. All F-16 will be monitored and approved by USA, only for peaceful missions. It means only American authorized usage only. China has gwader etc. Anything else for sale.
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Jul 28, 2019 02:28am
This money is for the US to maintain the 24/7 monitoring of its arms that they’ve sold to Pakistan! It’s to tighten the leash around Pakistan because no one trusts Pakistan. Read before you start gloating about military aid! Haha!
“The potential sale will support US foreign policy and national security “by protecting US technology through the continued presence of US personnel that provide 24/7 end-use monitoring,” a statement by US State Department announcing the Pakistan approval read.”
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Jul 28, 2019 02:32am
Well bowled imran
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Jul 28, 2019 02:36am
Leave the Approval just gave us the previous stuck up funds we paid. For the f16 thats more then enough..
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Jul 28, 2019 03:43am
This will be a nightmare scenario for PAF. You will have 60 Americans sittings at your Airbases. Good luck
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Jul 28, 2019 04:23am
Rewarding the Indians for Sanctions Against the US.
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Jul 28, 2019 05:45am
So happy about free stuff. What a culture? No way this nation can ever be self reliant.
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Jul 28, 2019 05:53am
What is wrong with us? We need to get over American sanction proned technology.
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Jul 28, 2019 07:29am
That’s about money required to buy one F-16 aircraft shot down by your neighbor.
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Jul 28, 2019 08:40am
This is only for maintenance of aircrafts to keep it in running.125 million dollars is too small amount to buy anything.
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Jul 28, 2019 09:21am
Since independence US been a close allies of Pakistan--what is the result? Did US ever help anybody with her own vested interest?
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Jul 28, 2019 09:54am
Good, if they do not fly, what will our Rafaels target ?
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Jul 28, 2019 11:06am
Peanuts as usual from US
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Jul 28, 2019 11:50am
So the US government is paying it’s private company to come to Pakistan and monitor the F-16 program.
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Jul 28, 2019 01:19pm
@MG, "Where do we get $125M?" May be ask India for a loan, you never know till you ask.
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Jul 28, 2019 01:33pm
trump giveth with one hand and taketh away with the other.
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Jul 28, 2019 03:06pm
Who will give you $125million .Soudi ????
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Jul 28, 2019 03:07pm
Disappointed..With our great khan saheb's graceness, thought atleast we will get 10 billion dollars donations from Trumph...
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Jul 28, 2019 03:56pm
My worry is that trumph is a smarter business man ad intelligent than our khan saheb....
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Jul 28, 2019 05:00pm
It's OK if Pakistan gets the planes but it would have been better if Pakistan had got monetary assistance from the US directly on concessional terms. Anyway, this is good too.
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Jul 28, 2019 05:03pm
@why, When a country keeps needling other countries, it does need to have some deterrent to defend itself in case any or more of those countries ........
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Jul 28, 2019 07:25pm
This is what is called running with hare and hunting with fox. All this money will go to USA contractors andd you will be holding blank paper as a reward. One should de beware of such people. A known enemy is better that a friend with wavering and suspicious mind.
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