Amidst stiff opposition from India and top American lawmakers, the US government has formally published federal notification for the sale of eight F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan.
The notification, published by the federal register on Friday, said this proposed sale contributes to US foreign policy objectives and national security goals by helping to improve the security of a strategic partner in South Asia. It added that the Government of Pakistan had requested for this 700 million US Dollar sale.
India has opposed the sale of F-16 to Pakistan, saying it disagree with Washington’s rationale that such arms transfers help to combat terrorism. Last month, India had summoned US Ambassador Richard Verma to convey its displeasure and disappointment over the decision.