Kerry Responds To Pakistani Unrest Over Aid Bill

By Justin Duckham-Talk Radio News Service

Senate Foreign Relations Chairman John Kerry (D-Mass.) responded Tuesday to the chilly reception from Pakistan toward the Kerry-Lugar aid bill, saying that the committee intends to include a document alongside the $7.5 billion aid bill aimed at assuaging Pakistani concerns.

“[The document] affirms the primary intention of the Enhanced Partnership With Pakistan Act, it demonstrates the American people’s long-term commitment to the people of Pakistan,” said Kerry during a press briefing with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi.

The Chairman added that the document stresses that the U.S. respects the sovereignty of Pakistan’s government and military.

The bill, which will provide the full $7.5 billion over a five year span, has faced sharp criticism from Pakistan’s parliament, military and civilian population for exerting too much U.S. influence in the country.