Sridhar Krishnaswami
WASHINGTON: Notwithstanding India's unhappiness over the proposed sale of F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan, the Bush administration has said the decision demonstrates its commitment to a "long-term relationship" with that country.
"Pakistan is a major non-NATO ally, which has cooperated closely with us in the global war on terror. This proposed sale demonstrates our commitment to a long-term relationship with Pakistan," White House Spokesman Tony Snow told reporters.
On Monday, New Delhi said the Bush Administration's decision "is not conducive to improving ties between India and Pakistan".
It also pointed out that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had during his meeting with US President George W Bush expressed "disappointment" over such a move.
Snow said the proposed package is valued at approximately USD five billion.
The White House has also confirmed the specifics of the sale which were sent up to Congress by the Pentagon and the State Department last week.
"The proposed sale includes 18 new F-16 aircraft with an option to purchase another 18 new aircraft, a support package for up to 26 used F-16s, a munitions package, an upgrade package for Pakistan's current fleet of 34 F-16s, and logistical support," the spokesman said.
Senior lawmakers in the Congress have welcomed the deal as it benefits the figther jet manufacturer Lockheed Martin.
