Bill aims to halt security assistance to Pakistan moved in US Senate

WASHINGTON DC: The Bill moved in the United States (US) Senate on Friday against Pakistan seeking to halt security aid to the country if it is found taking offensive action against India.

The bill titled “US-India Defense Cooperation Act”, tabled by Republican Senator Marco Rubio proposed that India be dealt with along the same lines as allies like Japan, Israel, Korea, and NATO partners regarding technology transfers.

Moreover, the bill also proposed legislation barring Pakistan from receiving security assistance if it is found to have sponsored terrorism against India.

The bill moved by Senator Rubio aimed to require a report to Congress on Pakistan’s use of offensive force, including through terrorism and proxy groups, against India.

Senator Marco Rubio also proposed that the U.S.-India partnership is vital to countering influences from Communist China. “To strengthen this partnership, it is essential to enhance our strategic diplomatic, economic, and military relationship with New Delhi.”

“Communist China continues to aggressively expand its domain in the Indo-Pacific region, all while it seeks to impede the sovereignty and autonomy of our regional partners. The U.S. must continue its support in countering these malicious tactics. India, along with other nations in the region, is not alone,” the bill reads.

Furthermore, the bill stated, provides a limited exemption for India from CAATSA sanctions for purchases of Russian equipment that are currently used by the Indian military.

It proposes to offer necessary security assistance for India to deter adversaries and outlines cooperation in defense, civil space, technology, medicine, and economic investments.