Business Standard

Thursday, January 09, 2025 | 04:02 PM ISTEN Hindi

Notification Icon
userprofile IconSearch

India summons US amb, conveys displeasure over move to sell

Image

Press Trust of India New Delhi
Reacting strongly, India today summoned US Ambassador Richard Verma to convey its "displeasure and disappointment" over Obama administration's decision to sell F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan.

Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar summoned Verma to the South Block and during the 45-minute meeting told him about India's concerns over US military aid to Pakistan which New Delhi believes goes into anti-India activities.

According to sources, such military aids will embolden Pakistan.

External Affairs Ministry also issued a strong statement expressing its "disappointment" over the US decision. It said it disagrees with the rationale that these arms transfer to Pakistan will help in combating terrorism.
 

"We are disappointed at the decision of the Obama administration to notify the sale of F-16 aircraft to Pakistan. We disagree with their rationale that such arms transfers help to combat terrorism.

"The record of the last many years in this regard speaks for itself," the MEA statement said.

The Obama administration today said it has decided to sell eight nuclear-capable F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan worth nearly USD 700 million. The proposal has now gone to the US Congress, which has 30 days to take a decision on it.

There is a feeling in official circles here that India has turned out be the victim whenever any military aid has been given to Pakistan in past.

Don't miss the most important news and views of the day. Get them on our Telegram channel

First Published: Feb 13 2016 | 5:42 PM IST

Explore News