Mumbai:
Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar today said India does not “agree” with the US’ rationale that sale of F-16 combat jets to Pakistan will help combat terrorism.
In a written reply in Lok Sabha, Parrikar said India has expressed disappointment at the decision of the United States to notify the sale of F-16 aircrafts to Pakistan.
“India does not agree with the US rationale that such arms transfers help to combat terrorism,” he said.
Reacting strongly, India had last month summoned US Ambassador to India Richard Verma to convey its “displeasure and disappointment” over Obama administration’s decision to sell the fighter jets to Pakistan.
Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar had summoned Verma to the South Block and during the 45-minute meeting conveyed to him India’s concerns over the US military aid to Pakistan which New Delhi believes used for into anti-India activities.
