US Wants to Give Pakistan $101 Million to Help with Democracy, Fighting Terrorism, and Economy

According to Donald Lu, a high-ranking US official, the US government has decided to grant $101 million to Pakistan. Three things are expected to be benefited: 

1. Democratization

2. Counterterrorism 

3. Economic Stabilization of Pakistan 

He said that, though Pakistan is beset with issues on the one hand, it also has some bright opportunities on the other hand to mend its ways. The money will help Pakistan to deal with these issues.

The $101 million would be used for the following:

• To be given to Pakistan to help make its democracy and society stronger

• To counter terrorism and violent extremism

• To advance economic adjustment

• To help Pakistan manage its debts

Concerns of the US About Democracy in Pakistan

The US has been trying to persuade Pakistan to pursue democratic ideals. Just recently, the US lawmakers passed a resolution where it expressed deep concerns over democracy and human rights in Pakistan. Pakistan did not accept this statement and said all these apprehensions were far from fact.

Fighting Terrorism Together

Several times, the US has expressed its urge for cooperation with Pakistan in the campaign against terror. It strongly feels that this is something quite essential for the entire region.

The US aims to challenge China in Pakistan

The United States also aims to challenge the Chinese influence in Pakistan. Donald Lu said:

* The United States wants to prevent the over-reliance of Pakistan on China

* The United States believes in offering better investments than China in the future.

The present role of China in Pakistan

As of now, China is heavily engaged in Pakistan:

• Pakistan is the third-largest receiver of funds from China for development

• Most of China’s funds to Pakistan are in the form of loans and not grants

• China has moved to help Pakistan avoid running out of money, by delaying loan repayments

The US hopes to become a more vital partner to Pakistan than China with the offering of this $101 million and future support.