THE Pentagon has approved a military arms package worth nearly $ 1 billion to Pakistan ostensibly to support counter-terrorism and counter insurgency operations. It is expected to contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the US in order to protect security goals in South Asia. The helicopters and weapon systems to be supplied to Pakistan will provide it necessary military capability. The US Congress has been assured by the Pentagon that the proposal will not alter the military balance in the region. The US is also a large arms supplier to India. The arms package will enable Pakistan to have precision strike and enhanced survivability for aircraft which will be able to operate at high altitudes. The Taliban in North Waziristan will then be adequately challenged. The US is admittedly frustrated at Pakistan’s two-timing and double-dealing ways in the war on terrorism. Pakistan’s nuclear power is also considered the biggest concern to stability in South Asia. The Pentagon’s thinking is contrary to this view.
India has reason to be miffed at its equation with Pakistan. It does not operate clandestine terrorist operations on Pakistani soil. New Delhi of course wants the Taliban in North Waziristan to be contained so that Islamabad can turn the heat of cross-border terrorism targeting India. But past experience shows that Pakistan’s duplicity can never be out of its reckoning. India cannot be sure that US arms supplied to Pakistan will not be used against India through anti-India outfits. Such apprehension will cast a shadow over the prospects of bilateral talks.
