US announces $2 billion military aid to Pakistan

[Lahore_Real_Estate]

* Hillary Clinton says US has no stronger partner than Pakistan when it comes to counter-terrorism efforts against extremists

WASHINGTON: The US on Friday pledged $2 billion in military aid to Pakistan and hailed its efforts to battle extremists, seeking to bolster an uneasy alliance with the frontline nation.

The military package, keenly sought by Pakistani leaders, marks the latest twist in the two nations’ crisis-prone relationship but risks causing unease in India just two weeks before a visit to New Delhi by US President Barack Obama.

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said the administration would ask Congress to approve $2 billion in military aid to purchase US-made arms, ammunition and accessories from 2012 to 2016 as part of the US’ “enduring commitment to help Pakistan plan for its defence needs”.

“The US has no stronger partner when it comes to counter-terrorism efforts against the extremists who threaten us both than Pakistan,” Clinton said at high-level, three-day talks between the two nations.

In a joint press conference at the end of the dialogue, Clinton said the talks had been positive, while expressing confidence over the strategic dialogue, saying it would help understand both the countries.

Clinton said US would train 10,000 Pakistani workingwomen in Arizona, adding that the US wanted to empower Pakistani women. She said she had asked for suggestions and advices from Pakistan regarding issues on energy and water. She added that it was the priority of the US to find solutions to these issues. Clinton said millions of people were threatened by the Taliban, adding that the Taliban were killing intellectuals and educated people such as doctors, referring to killing of Dr Farooq Khan in Swat.