US Senate rejects move to ban F-16 sale to Pakistan
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WASHINGTON: US Senate rejected the move to ban F-16 sale to Pakistan with a vote of 71 out of 100.
The resolution was moved by Republican Senator Rand Paul to block sale of F-16 jets to Pakistan which was defeated by 71 to 24 votes.
According to an announcement, “The procedural resolution was passed by approximately two-third majority, denying any further motion against the sale.”
Paul claimed that Pakistan will have to release Dr. Shakeel and Asia Bibi.
Obama administration passed the sale of F-16 aircraft and other military equipment worth $700 million on Feb.12.
India criticized the move and claimed to cancel the sale with the help of Indian lobby in Congress.
Secretary of State John Kerry defended the sale in Senate and claimed that sale is in our national interest and the aircrafts will be used to counter terrorism in the region.
Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) stated that the deal will improve Pakistan’s ability to conduct operations against counter-insurgency and counter terrorism.
US President Barack Obama also claimed to aid $8.6 billion for Pakistan in the upcoming budget which will be used against terrorism, stability and development of country and to solve economic and social problems.
