ISLAMABAD, July 10: The Foreign Office on Monday said Pakistan would be prepared to give an undertaking in ‘appropriate language’ not to transfer American F-16 fighter jet technology to a third country and underscored it was a standard clause in almost all defence procurement contracts.

Responding to a question about a concern raised in the US Congress that the F-16 technology from Pakistan could be transferred to China, Foreign Office Spokesperson Tasnim Aslam categorically said: “We do not do that and also a safety clause is a standard built-in clause in such agreements… We will be ready to look at the appropriate language for such assurance.”

Ms Aslam disagreed with the view that the US Congress was opposed to the sale of F-16 aircraft to Pakistan. She said that under the American procedures the US administration was required to notify the Congress and during the 30-day notification period it was the Congress’ prerogative to ask for briefings.

Rejecting media reports that the F-16 deal had been deferred, she asserted: “No, there is no such thing. The (Bush) administration has assured us that they will make their best efforts to ensure that this deal is approved by the Congress and they can live up to their commitment.”

COMPOSITE DIALOGUE: She brushed aside media reports that Pakistan government was contemplating to prune down the composite dialogue subjects with India or seeking a change in its format.

ISRAELI ATTACKS: On Israeli attacks on Gaza, she said: “This is a matter of deep concern for us. We have deplored the aggression and collective punishment of the Palestinian people.”