The attempt to undermine Pakistan through an anti-Pakistan initiative faceda setback within the chambers of the US Congress. US Secretary of State,Anthony Blanken, reiterated the United States’ stance, making it abundantlyclear that the US does not endorse any regime change efforts in Pakistan.This development comes amidst a significant legislative moment in whichCongressman Andy Ogles, a Republican representing Tennessee, proposed ameasure to freeze aid to Pakistan within the State, Foreign Operations, andRelated Programs Act of 2024. However, this proposition was ultimatelydefeated during a recorded vote in the House of Representatives.
A noteworthy aspect of this outcome is the bipartisan consensus thatemerged within the Congress. Members of both the Democratic and Republicanparties united in their rejection of the aid freeze proposal, with anoverwhelming 298 votes against it, compared to 132 votes in favor. Thisbipartisan solidarity underscored the significance of maintaining supportfor Pakistan in the eyes of US lawmakers.
During this crucial debate, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee andCongresswoman Barbara Lee emerged as staunch advocates for the continuationof aid to Pakistan. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee argued passionatelyagainst the initiative, dismissing it as misleading and asserting that theviews expressed by her colleagues did not accurately represent thegovernment and people of Pakistan.
She emphasized the longstanding bilateral relationship between the UnitedStates and Pakistan, which has spanned decades and encompassed cooperationin diverse fields such as defense, counter-terrorism, trade, investment,and agriculture. Congresswoman Jackson Lee highlighted the sacrifice ofmany Pakistani soldiers during the Afghan war and stressed that bilateralrelations were progressing positively.
Read Top Stories
Adding to the chorus of support for Pakistan, Barbara Lee articulated thecrucial role of Pakistan’s assistance in regional stability, combatingextremism, and fostering peace and security. She pointed out that for thefiscal year 2024, a substantial allocation of $135 million was designatedfor Pakistan. These funds were earmarked for various programs, includingeconomic assistance, anti-narcotics efforts, military education andtraining, anti-terrorism initiatives, and healthcare programs.
In summary, the defeat of the proposal to freeze aid to Pakistan in the USCongress was a testament to the bipartisan recognition of the importance ofthe US-Pakistan relationship. The arguments put forth by CongresswomanSheila Jackson Lee and Congresswoman Barbara Lee highlighted themultifaceted cooperation between the two nations and underscored the vitalrole Pakistan plays in regional stability and counterterrorism efforts.This legislative episode reaffirmed the enduring ties between the UnitedStates and Pakistan.
