John Kerry defends in US Senate the sale of F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan

24 Feb, 2016

WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State John Kerry defended the plan of Obama administration to sell F-16 jets to Pakistan and requested an aid of $742 million for Pakistan against the fight to combat terrorism.

 

He claimed that Pakistan is an important ally of US and Pak Army is fighting against the terrorism.

 

He appreciated the Pak Army and claimed that the sale of F-16 fighter jets is in America’s national interest.

 

Lawmakers and Congressional leaders showed deep concerns over the deal.

 

Kerry said “I understand your reservations about it but their military has been deeply engaged in the fight against terrorism.”

 

US government announced that it had approved the sale of eight F-16 fighter jets, radar and other military equipment built by Lockheed Martin Corporation worth $699 million.

 

India also summoned US envoy and showed anger on the sale of F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan.

 

Lawmakers have concerns and they have 30 days to block the deal.