Kerry defends sale of F-16s to Pakistan

WASHINGTON: The Obama administration reiterated its support to sell F-16 jets to Pakistan despite strong opposition and questioning from the key US lawmakers.

Secretary of State John Kerry appeared before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Tuesday to discuss his budget plans and defended fighter jets sale to Pakistan.

Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee questioned John Kerry on US plan to sell F-16 jets to Pakistan. He emphasised that Pakistan Army had been engaged in war against terror and the country proved to be the US ally.

Chairman of the committee, Republican Senator Bob Corker, questioned the deal saying, "They continue to support the Taliban, the Haqqani network and give safe haven to al-Qaeda."

Secretary Kerry was quick to respond that the issue was complicated. "I understand your reservations about it but their military has been deeply engaged in the fight against terrorism," he said. Kerry further added that Pakistan had been an ally.

The administration approved the jets sale deal earlier this month and sought Congressional nod. Corker had written a letter to President Obama refusing to back it, saying that he had his doubts about it, but the administration appeared determined to finalise it.