ISLAMABAD: The US decision to cancel $300 million aid to
Pakistan over its inaction against terrorist groups carrying out attacks in Afghanistan is a major blow for the newly elected Imran Khan government struggling to keep the economy of the country afloat. With the suspension of $300 million, the total amount of Coalition Support Fund (CSF) withheld by Washington this year stands at $800 million.
The cancellation came days ahead of an expected visit by US secretary of state
Mike Pompeo and the top US military officer, General Joseph Dunford, to Islamabad. “This decision was expected but not before the planned visit of top US officials. It will likely further deteriorate the strained relations between Islamabad and Washington,” said a senior foreign ministry official, requesting his name not be made public. “The decision to suspend aid has set the tone for the next week’s conversation between the top officials of the two countries in Islamabad,” the official added.
According to analysts, the incessant US pressure on Islamabad over terrorism has already reduced Pakistan’s reliance on Washington in the defence sector. “The latest move is likely to push Islamabad further towards Beijing, its longtime ally, for its military and security related needs,” said analyst Nazrul Islam.
