LOC11:43
08:43 GMT
NEW DELHI, Feb 13 (KUNA) -- Indian External Affairs Ministry summoned American Ambassador Richard Verma on Saturday to convey New Delhi's displeasure over Obama administration's decision to sell F-16 fighter aircraft to Pakistan.
The External Affairs Ministry Spokesman, Vikas Swarup, said today: "India We are disappointed at the decision of Obama administration to notify the sale of F-16 aircraft to Pakistan. We disagree with their rationale that such arms transfers help to combat terrorism. The record of the last many years in this regard speaks for itself. The US Ambassador will be summoned by the Ministry of External Affairs to convey our displeasure."
Later, Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar conveyed New Delhi's displeasure and disappointment over the decision after summoning Verma into the External Affairs Ministry office at the South Block, situated next to Parliament.
Jaishankar expressed to the US envoy India's concerns that US military aid to Pakistan may be used for anti-India activities.
The Indian protest came after Obama administration notified the US Congress its decision to sell USD 700 million worth eight F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan despite strong objection from a number of American lawmakers.
The US administration claimed that the deal will improve Islamabad's capability to face current and future security threats while stressing that this will not change the basic military balance in the region. (end)
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