India conveys concerns over US F-16 pack for Pakistan

INTERNATIONAL DESK: India has conveyed concerns over a recent US decision to provide a sustenance package for Pakistani F-16 fighters. Defence minister Rajnath Singh raised the issue with US defence secretary Lloyd Austin during a telephonic conversation on Wednesday.

Singh raised the issue of the recent announcement of a $450 million package for Pakistan under Washington’s Foreign Military Sales programme. The clearance would pave the way for US manufacturers to sell spares and supplies for Pakistan’s fleet.

“I conveyed India’s concern at the recent US decision to provide sustenance package for Pakistan’s F-16 fleet. Look forward to continuing dialogue with Secretary Austin to further consolidating India-US partnership,” the minister said.

“I conveyed India’s concern at the recent US decision to provide sustenance package for Pakistan’s F-16 fleet. Look forward to continuing dialogue with Secretary Austin to further consolidating India-US partnership,” the minister said.

Singh also spoke on cooperation in the Indo Pacific and reiterated Indian support for repairs of US warships operating in the region. Discussions also took place on a framework for a long terms arrangement for warship repairs in India.

“We discussed growing convergence of strategic interests and enhanced defence and security cooperation. We also discussed ways to strengthen technological and industrial collaboration and also explore cooperation in emerging and critical technologies,” the minister said. (The Economic Times)