Pakistan seems to be waging a war on two fronts these days. One, against the insurgents doing so much damage to the country’s stability. The other is a sustained PR assault on the international stage in search of money.
“Pakistan needs the unconditional support by the international community in the fields of education, health training and provision of equipment for fighting terrorism,” Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari said earlier this week, before warning that his country is fighting for its very survival.
Then yesterday the Pakistan’s ambassador to the US criticised Washington for spending money on car company bailouts instead of helping his country. Pakistan and Afghanistan deserve more resources than ‘some car company whose achievemetn is that they couldn’t make cars they could sell,’ said Ambassador Husain Haqqani.
Meanwhile a suspected foiled terrorist plot in Britain has led to the arrest of 11 Pakistani nationals. It prompted Gordon Brown to call on Pakistan to do more to root out terrorism within its own borders. But how much more can the Pakistani government do on its own? There have been four bombs in Islamabad this week alone – the country clearly has its hands full dealing with the terror threat on its own soil. Can it be expected to think about, let alone fund, counter-terrorism in other countries too?
President Obama has already pledged $7.5 billion dollars to Pakistan over the next five years, in recognition of the pivotal role Pakistan now plays in global security. Do you think that’s enough? Or should the coffers be opened further? Compared with the amount of money made for bank and car bailouts doesn’t the Ambassador have a point that it is actually very little. But then again, how much more can the world give in good conscience to a country with an already unstable government, especially at such a difficult economic time?
Pakistan has six months before it descends into chaos, a leading counter-insurgency expert told US Congress this week. So, however expensive it might be, it is right to act now to prevent a total collapse of the country?
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I cannot expect anyone to actually go for it, but what a great way to jump start the entire world economy. What if we simply all invest in one another, and employ the unemployed by improving one another’s county’s facilities and resources? Wow! What an amazing way that would be to foster cultural understanding and unity and improve conditions for everyone world wide!
Sadly, I know the governments would not make the major decisions to do it, and the common populace would most likely be against it as well and holler like crazy.
It is not that Pakistan is a failed State as much as Islam has failed Pakistan. Unable to adapt to a modern world Muslims in Pakistan have fallen 14 centuries behind the world. It is obvious to the casual observer that the recent Government surrender to the Taliban is the Swat Valley was destined for a poor outcome.
There is no easy answer but I think that the world needs to look at Pakistan and Afghanistan as one issue with the Taliban and al-Queda as the enemy of all parties Having surrendered to the Taliban, Pakistan no longer is a sovereign state and thus has no control over or say in what is done to cross its borders to root out the Taliban and al-Queda by the West and India.
Pakistan can no longer heal itself. It is time that it drops its hatred and mistrust of India and starts opening itself up to and cooperating with the West.
Definitely, technically the rest of the world helped create the problem in Pakistan forcing out the Taliban in Afghanistan. Since American troops are in Afghanistan this mitigates the millitants attack against Afghan targets so instead they attack Pakistan which in their eyes has sold out to the West.
There is little the world can do to end terrorism within and from Pakistan as long as the Islamists have support among members of the army and the security forces. The Pakistani government should first clear these two essential bodies from Taliban sympathisers. Concerning education, as long as Islamic schools continue to inculcate archaic teachings, they’re likely to produce a wave of armies ready to die for their cause rather than co-exist with a regime seeking openness and modernity.
Bailing out Pakistan by the international community isn’t enough as what is needed for the Pakistani government is to brainwash those who sympathize with the terrorists, join them and carry attacks in their names.
Should Pakistan become really a failed state, it would be the most dangerous state in the( Muslim) world not only for the West but also for its neighbours, mainly India.
The Pakistani government can’t expect to end terrorism on its soil just by receiving money from the outside world. It should endeavour to establish good governance, without which Pakistan will remain the scene of strife between the modernists and the Muslim radicals.
President Assef Zardari is not in control because Nawaz Sharif wields more power. Paksitan needs a general to carry out a a dredging operation in the Pakistani political system.
Assef Zardari must prove he can govern Pakistan before he takes on
al-Qaeda and Taliban.
Perhaps the first question should be: Is Pakistan “bail-out-able”? I haven’t heard much in your World Service interviews and other sources that gives me much confidence that it is.
I don’t think any nation has a responsibility to another nation beyond what is in the first nation’s best interest. That is not to say that nations should be isolated, but rather that every nation understands there are strings attached to aid and good will. I don’t think Pakistan accepts this point.
Is it in our interest to support Pakistan’s economic development? Definitely… poor people without hope for their futures are more easily persuaded to revolution and/or to join terrorist groups. Pakistan chose to make itself a target of international interest when it elected to add its name to the list of nuclear-weapon nations. As such, a Pakistan under the control of the Taliband or Al-Quaida is not acceptable, given the doctrine and actions of these groups in recent years.
Is it in Pakistan’s interest to have international military support to disrupt / destroy the Taliband and Al-Quaida forces in its northwest provinces? Most definitely… the Pakistani government is not able to deter these forces from taking control of more territory and waging suicide attacks throughout Pakistan. If Pakistan is to continue as a nation as it now exists, it requires military as well as economic support.
Is it our RESPONSIBILITY to bail out Pakistan? No. Is it in our INTEREST? Yes.
That the Pakistani leaders don’t understand the difference between what is another nation’s responsibility and interest is indicative of the concern if they are “bail-out-able”.
As to whether the US should carry all of the financial / military burden? It cannot… a simple fact given the financial crisis we are presently fighting. We have pledged a good down payment, now it rests on other nations to understand their own national interest to guarantee a stable Pakistan and ante-up their part.
Hi i dont think it the issue of bailing out pakistan but this is aglobal issue which should be tackled globally although the pakistanis still dont want to swallow their pride by saying they dont want foriegn troops in their territory bt the main issue is they are already defeated and paksitan is now a failed state because of these extremist who should be wiped out before its too late. Like the saying goes “The reluctance of a goat to be dragged to the market will not stop the owner from selling it” Thats why America will contnue bombing their country amidst their resistance. Thanks Ben in Juba
Unfortunately the world has to hep Pakistan fight off the Taleban insurgents because without the assistance it will become a failed state – and just imagine a failed nuclear armed state under the control of the Taleban. I am sure the Pakistanis miss General Musharaf very badly now.
It is the world’s responsibility to bail out Pakistan?
NO!
So, however expensive it might be, it is right to act now to prevent a total collapse of the country?
I think if the people of Pakistan want to make something of their country; they should take the reins themselves. It will involve making some tough choices; including how it has been in any way beneficial to have your country riddled with Islamic radicals in control.
I’m sorry President Asif Ali Zardari, but I would say Pakistan needs conditional support. If the President Asif Ali Zardari wants the world to give him money then he should expect that those giving it will have certain expectations. Even US car manufacturers have been given ultimatums to go with the assistance. If on the other hand President Asif Ali Zardari doesn’t feel he should answer to anyone maybe he really doesn’t need the help after all.
Tracy
Portland OR
I think throwing money alone at Pakiststan will not help. Abdelilah Boukili in Morocco has several good points, and yet it is obvious that the world can’t sit by, wringing it’s collective hands, while a country with nuclear capability falls into chaos. At the very least, Mr Zadari should allow a multi-national United Nation contingent to surround and protect the nuclear weapons and power plants. I realize that this could only be done with the acknowledgment that the Pakistani Army is not capable of doing it themselves, so pride will get in the way. But it would be a start.
Pakistan’s position seems to be that the USA and the rest of the world should give it unconditional support and let Pakistanis sort out Pakistan.
This is, in fact, what’s been happening in Pakistan for many years, and look at where that kind of policy has gotten Pakistan.
Pakistan is a country in the brink of becoming a failed-state because of its own mistakes. It should not be bailed out. However, it NEEDS to be bailed out. Pakistan should be bailed out not to save Pakistan itself but to save the world from the terrorists within it.
It can’t possibly be the world’s responsibility to bail out Pakistan when it appears the Pakistani state doesn’t think it is its own responsibility. And I, with both parents born in Pakistan, a citizen of India, and resident of a united Europe, probably have much to learn about bailing out failing states. Maybe the UN should take over Pakistan, because the Pakistani elite can’t seem to manage either their democracy or their military (they keep substituting the two so that one no longer knows whose in charge – except for the gun on the street). Sorry, but that needed to be said.
What about personal responsibility? They are not bankrupt because of terrorism but because of failed policies. They need to spend less on army and more on education. They should replace the religious schools with modern public schools. They are trying to save face, as the country is about to go bankrupt and are piggy backing on terrorism to save face. Grow up!
Pakistan is not fighting terrorism but creating it. Now it is forced to face what it created for India. Even before this taliban problem what they were doing–no progress on any front other than terrorism. Now Pakistan is playing victim.
manoj rohilla, India
For Pakistan’s problem America is responsible. America has imposed its unacceptable policies in Pakistan which nurtured terrorists. The terrorism has had heavy toll on economics of Pakistan. So now America should help Pakistan now. But Pakistan’s politicians are too shrewed. So I don’t support unconditional support. If unconditional support is given to Pakistan than it will do more harm than good.
Absolutely! they deserve our help and I believe It shouldn’t only be the USA that bails out EVERYONE. There’s many other countries and they ALL should chip in!
Can Pakistan give a good argument as to why they should be bailed out WITHOUT mentioning how much they DESERVE it? Because, I mean… I deserve a bail out too, you know?
And who brought the auto companies up (from the intro)? It’s not like American’s had a say about that money either! People say the West’s spending frivolously, so after all that flitting away of money, do people really think we have anything left? Would you ask a problem gambler for a loan?
I realize the West’s screwed things up in Pakistan, but stuff happens, and the West’s screwed up a lot of regions – including our own. Just because someone deserves help is not sufficient enough reason to get others to do so.
~Paige
in Portland Oregon
Listening on OPB
A question for the Officials. ‘
Can you give a clear and transparent report where every single cent that has been giving in Aid is accounted for? If yes posted on Internet and Pakistan deserves more Aid. If not where is the money lost?
Probably lost in corruption and Pakistan do not deserve more money.
“reaping what they sowed”…couldn’t be more accurate.
Basically, Pakistani establishment bred extremism as weapon against India in Kashmir.
“reaping what they sowed”…couldn’t be more accurate.
Basically, Pakistani establishment bred extremism as weapon against India in Kashmir.
But don’t think there’s any other option but to bail out Pakistan, remember the Nukes?
what i feel is that the USA has been too keen on other countries affairs for the wrong reason thus the current status of Afghanistan, Iraq and other muslim contries that follow. who does Mr. Obama (with all due respect) think he is kidding to when he say that USA would never be in war with muslim countries over the world?
well, why don’t the USA clear up the mess they have started and just let the people live their lives?
So, as a US Citizen, what do get for my $30 billion?
Would Pakistan be willing to provide me with a detailed budget of where this money is going? How about a guarntee of milestones and goals? What sort of penalties would the Pakistani Government be willing to pay if it “looses” a million here or there that was earmarked for a village’s school or clean drinking water?
Pakistan is an Islamic state. I cannot understand how you can support giving aid to an Islamic state. Will Pakistan agree to become a secular state?
Just like financial recovery money given to banks is being overseen to make sure people are accountable and deliver results.
Pakistan should be held accountable for the money it receives. It needs to show that it can deliver.
Yes Pakistan does need bail out to tackle the terrorism it is presently facing from Talibans. If it is not bailed out now, world might have to face more 9/11 attacks other than U.S. As we know prevention is better than curing world have to prevent itself before being the victim of terrorism. Thank you.
Pakistan, like most non-Western Countries, is little understood but as one of the most corrupt countries in the world, bail out is money down the drain. With the best of intentions against terrorism under Musharaff, it was not able to check Al-Qaeda activities nor control the influx of the Taliban. Worse still the terrain at the PAkistani/Afghan long border is a complex millieu of people and wilderness. The solution is use a mix of dialogue, intelligence and warfare to neutralise Al-Qaeda.Let the Afghan leadership develop a formula for jointly ruling their own country with the Taliban and other stakeholders. Trying to conquer or destroy the Taliban, especially by a Western power is like trying to wipe out Afghanistan from the surface of the earth. Outsiders will be re-writing the entire history of Afghanistan during most of the 20th century. Helping keep the Pakistani economy stable is like changing the very identity of Pakistan. Nigeria is an African equivalent brewing fast into an Islamic fundamentalist outpost through its extremely corrupt emirs and clerics that have held the nation ransom for 49 years and prevented any good governance. Before Nigeria becomes a full-fledged Pakistan, the West should NOW help to bring about good governance through self-determination for all its peoples, including the Niger Delta
The mess in Afghanistran is the result of Pakistan creating the Taliban.
Pakistan is a complicated, convoluted mire of a country and with all respect the americans and british should do the bailout since they created the problem.
@ Dan,
No, Islam has not failed Pakistan, extreme Islamic fundamentalist are destroying Pakistan. As a sovereign state it is its citizens supreme responsibility to determined how this country should be ruled.
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@ WHYS
Pakistan does not respect women or our rights to be equal to men, it’s ironic that now it would request the American taxpayer dollars to bailout them out, taxpayer dollars that come from WOMEN and men to save their failed state. Ha!
Pakistan army have used bombs on baluch nationalists which were supplied by America to fight talibans. The money now can also be used for fighting with India. What is issurance that Pakistan will not use this money for fighting India? Would any body answer.
Pakistan is receiving money in order for the US to call the shots.Look out when the Pied Piper plays the tune you better dance
I wonder if Pakistan would be willing to give the US that kind of money if the roles were reversed…..somehow I doubt it or that very few countries would give to the US what they expect the US to give to them.
Considering that while it suited us, the US govt supported dictators there who usurped justice and rewarded dictators and cronies with economic gains, to the exclusion of everyone else, yes. Considering that the Brits colonized India for 200 yrs and restricted economic development there, literacy, universal education, infrastructure, higher education, etc, to serve the people of “mainland” Britain with cheap agricultural labor and captive markets for manufactured goods from Manchester, Sheffield, Birmingham, which explains why Pakistan is struggling and behind, yes. Oh by the way, I don’t blame Islam for being behind, I blame Christianity for holding Islamic countries back economically and socially for 200 yrs!
Having lost two friends to Pakistani sponsored terrorism in the recent Mumbai carnage, one may understand my scepticism to this “bailout” plan.
Before any money is promised to this basket case of a country, we must ensure the following:
– nuclear disarmament
– shutdown of every last terrorist training camp and madrassa
– complete freedom of conscience and equal citizenship to minorities such as Ahmedis, Hindus and Christians
– cutdown and restriction of defence spend to no more than 1% of GDP
– Surrender of known terrorists such as Masood Azhar, Dawood Ibrahim, Zakiur Rahman Lakhwi
– Prosecution of the owner of the nuclear Walmart (AQ Khan)
Unless these conditions are met, we are going to be pumping money into the next Mumbai-type carnage. It could be London, New York, Brussels or Tokyo’s turn.
Jennifer,
Sort of the same tough choices we are having to make in this country, riddled with christian radicals and right wing ignoramuses who are far from a benefit to the country. We will have to take the reigns before they run it into the ground………..Wouldn’t you agree?
Jessica sorry I failed to understand your point. Do u want to say Pakistan is responsible for its present state because it had and still not giving equal rights to Women? If this is what u want to say then you must not lament only rather do something whatever u can to do away with this equality.
RE “” Pakistan seems to be waging a war on two fronts these days. “”
———————————————————————————
————- War really revolves around two fundamental principles at loggerheads against each other.
It’s failed democracy Vs failed Islamic Republic in a race to the lowest common denominator. It could be the Pakistanis will become a larger version of the Palestinian territories, where suicidal anarchy will be the prevailing status quo.
Really a shame since like the Palestinians, there are many fine intelligent citizens who get swept up in the vicious infighting and eliminated or impoverished forever.
The appellation Islam is too often associated with acts of terrorism. The grip Islamic faith has on the faithful is very strong. Religious authorities have power of live and death on them e.g. Fatwa. what about an official condemnation of e.g. suicide bombing or even bomb blasts as they occur daily. Who knows it might have an effect!. Editing such appeals could be financed.
As there are soldiers on the field, those ought to subsidized.
Former American blunders need be redressed ! Of course.
Pakistan should hold responsibility on its shoulder instead of begging for everything but everything including education and healthcare. Pakistan is fighting for its very survival. There is slight different between Pakistan and somalia. If Somalia is failed state would Pakistan not be in the days to come?
Why rulers of Pakistan are asking for bailout? Even they are not asking just for bailout but for everything?. Ok. Would this money not go to swiss accounts? It is clear the large portion of this money would go in the coffers of politicans. Unconditional support should not be on the card.It will do harm than good.
“PR assault on the international stage in search of money.”
This is exactly what nations like Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq or Palestine who are breeding ground for terrorism against the West want. They trick the West into giving them so much attention so that they could be part of the problem they have created in the first place, by paying a very high human and financial sacrifice. The West seems to be capable of reacting to the problems of some countries when it’s confronted with terrorism or piracy, and it is looks like, it’s only the Muslim world who understood that.
Pakistani Givernment wants to be respected as a sovereign state, when it comes to drone attacks BUT they are not ashamed when they ask for money and the foreign aid
I can’t understand………..
Reality is reality and remain always reality ,can not be change can not be discarded.
We are (Pakistan) is fight for its survival?
no, wrong ,absolutely wrong,it is error to supouse.
Pakistan is fighting for American’s war which begun after invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq,counterinsurgency created from there.
History is witness,American armed forces’s enterence into Afghanistan,Talban and Alqaida fighters assembled in the region called lawless trible areas they stsrted war with The United States from there.Pakistan was compelled to fight against them and provide to American interests.
Pakistani involvment in the war is not based on self-interst or revivial.Pakistan is peace loving country but now called a terrorist state it is a result of American policies.
Dron attackes are being carried out by the States who face thereafter counterproductive?Pakistan..
Who is responsible of fauilure of the agreement with local talban,three bloch leaders were killed and put the country on ablaz,
For sack, leave us alone, let us free so that we take our decisions independently,
we need no assistant or aid on the name bllodshed of our own brothers.pls.
In Urdu “Pakistan” means pure abode, in the Islamic sense. That is what precisely the founders of Pakistan intended to create. What Pakistan is now undergoing is birth-pains of a pure Islamic state with Sharia law to the hilt. No power on earth and no amount of western money can thwart this destiny. America and its supporters have given Pakistan the kiss of death that will only speed up the process.
Terrorism will abate and peace will prevail only when America pulls out, zips up and goes home. Islamic countries cannot be moulded in the image of America. The money that Americans poured into Pakistan to drive out the Russians from Afghanistan found its way into producing a nuclear bomb, while the West conveniently looked the other way.
The West should learn to mind its own business and let others live according to their own cultures. That would be practising democracy.
It would be hard to imagine how Pakistani officials could better their circumstances without ridding the country of the radical extreme factions of jihadists and fundimentalists.
Throwing money at education or other demands when the radicals teach militant anti world values and treat women with no respect! To fund unconditionally a nation who has not been able to control-actually supports radical values is a waste…The corupption is rampant and the military budget is too large for what it provides!
The nuclear armament issue is a concern but they must get their house in order and support the war on terrorist activities inside the borders! Not make alliances with them but rout them out!
Is this a serious debate? seriously? The idea that Pakistan has the nerve to thump it’s chest at the world demanding money is absurd. This is a country that cannot even come to terms with the fact that their main industry is terrorism. Pakistan needs to look inward and real hard. My tax dollars should not be used to simpy line the pockets of corrupt pakistani’s who will simply fund schools that infest young millions of minds with medieval religious garbage; teaching hatred and eventually sent out to murder.
No Bail out.
Bail out Pakistan too, and with no strings attached. You have got to be kidding. Amazing how every Tom, Dick, and Harry feels he has some sort of justifiable “reason” to take even more money out of my pocket, and those of my neighbors.
Charity givers have every right to demand that their charity be spent in certain specifically defined ways. I can’t think of any reason why Westerners should feel obligated in any way to throw their money, no questions asked, at a government that has been shown to turn a blind eye to our enemies. Not to mention, a government whose officials have at times been shown to actually collaborate with that enemy.
What gall to come begging for money, honestly.
Pakistan should not be bailed out. It is a thoroughly corrupt state.
Because of two evil states all this terrorisam is going one is ISRIEL & another one is INDIA.
Being blocker of civilised approaches towards Phalistine & Kashmire, UN Security Counsil member’s are paying the price of terrorisam,
Pakistan ruled over India over 850 years because of there Hindooism religious diversity & abuse to the widows & from last 60 years Kashmari’s are paying the price in shape of Indian occupation in violation of partation agreement & UN security counsil resolution of 1948. No doubt presance of 800 thousand Indian army in Kashmir is an abuse to Kashmiri Muslims.
Root cause of terrorisam need to be adressed in a way they suppose to be, for sake of the world.
I think Isriel, India & UN Security Counsil member’s are totaly failed states, this is why they are expecting Pakistan to win there war.
To take control of Pakistan by pakistanies is by two ways .one by waging war with neighbouring country in order to gain true nationlism, Or to fight terorrism by herself. Both options are very difficult but second one is recommended.
Why should we help a country whose people HATE us ie the west, we should not let any more into this country
we have enough rubbish here already.
Pakistan dont need anything from anyone. infact the world needs pakistan to get their fears out. if today Pakistan stop its support for Intl. troops in Afghanistan, Taliban will get the hell out of them, they wont be able to find the place to hide, and this, the world leaders know.
so they know that they HAVE to support pakistan, only is that they are trying to play so that they can give minimum, as they always did before. as their is no other nation so powerful and energetic like pakistanis, and also they are afraid that if Taliban were not finished in pakistan, they will spread and the bettle, which they turned very hardly back from WEST after 9/11, to india-pakistan-afghanistan-iran, will be coming back to their own countries.
so again the world is making Cowardly activities, where they Paksitan to support FULL against taliban, but dont want to spent on that.
Last but not the least, if you want to defeat Taliban, u need a strong pakistan, which required UNCONDITIONAL support.
people of Pakistan thinks that the main problem in the way of fighting against Taliban is (RAW) since they are funding taliban to distablize Pakistan, Indian consulate in Afghanistan is working for these purposes. who can providing high sophisticated weapon to Baittullah Mehsood except India???? i think world should stop India to do that.
IT IS NOT THE WORLD’S BUT PRINCIPALLY ANGLO-US RESPONSIBILITY. GOING IN TO MIDDLE EAST AND EAST ASIA FOR THE EXPLOITATION OF THIER RESOURCES AND ESTABLISHING A CLIENT STATE WHO WOULD DO THEIR BIDDING..
EVEN IN SOMALIA WHEN A GOVERNMENT OF ISLAMIC COURT WAS ESTABLISHED US BRIBED ETHIOPIA TO DESTROY THE SOMALIAN GOVERNMENT. NO WONDER NOW THEY WORLD HARVESTING EVILS SITUATION OF PIRACY
This problem is so complicated.
Up until the very recent past the rich countries of the world have wasted a huge amount of money, energy, and a large number of human lives making the problem worse.
At last the US has an intelligent and moral president. That one fact has changed the world.
How can people who have become so extremely alienated that they are ready to kill themselves in an act of unholy destruction be changed?
Alleviation of poverty in Pakistan would certainly help but, even if the money were available, how on earth could anyone administer its expenditure?
With a gradual easing of tensions between the West and Iran and with the end of US terrorism (CIA kidnapping, torture, and murder) a decline in extremism might become possible but there is perhaps even less hope now than before that the biggest aggravation to the problem will improve.
There seems no hope that Israel will want to live in peace with the Palestinians.
an unstable Pakistan is just too greater risk for the US, India, Israel and for the Pakistani people themselves. India and the Us will eventually come to the conclusion that Pakistan must be invaded, occupied and pacified. The cost in Lives will be enormous but the cost of avoiding war well be far greater.
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When the word says, “When you have a real democracy, then we’ll bail you out”, we will see developing countries turn to democracy.
North Korea regularly blackmails the US with the threat of nuclear development; then gets “bought off” with millions of dollar “grants”. lately the US did not buy it off, and it was obliged to launch it’s satellite, which plopped into the water. Right now the Dear Leader is most certainly thinking up a more successful blackmail strategy.
Terrorists jump at the chance to start cells in democracies, where they can at best live the Life of Riley. When they are released from “rendition” sites, they ask for asylum in democratic countries. Who wouldn’t? Back in their own countries they would be tortured and/or assassinated or at best again share the poverty of their compatriots.
And meanwhile through it all the women and children are raped and starved. The women in Somali say that they would rather have the Taliban mullahs back, than have lawless men entering their homes and robbing, raping and killing their families with impunity.
Go figure why the developed world is so uncaring.
We are the most terrorist country by the Pakistanis. They are the ones who started the training of terrorists who infiltrated into India causing terror. 26/11 2008 is still very clear in the minds of us Indians.
They need to accept their responsibilities and not claim that it is the handy work of fictitious party and when confronted by facts claim it is some disgruntled party and not their people.
I feel that Pakistan has no intention of ever combating their home grown terrorists due to the ISI, their secret police who have maneuvered the government into this situation.
Get rid of the ISI and you will be able see Pakistan getting results.
The situation in the Swat Valley is a case in which the ISI has maneuvered the Government into surrendering this Valley to the Taliban.
AT the rate at which the ISI is maneuvering the government they will Talibanise the whole of Pakistan something that they are interested in as it will give them, the ISI, control of the whole of Pakistan.
The present Government in Pakistan is ever so weak and has no confidence and ability to real govern the country.
Hence it is, my view, that helping Pakistan is a gone case and the USA has finally seen that they have been backing the wrong horse all these decades
Wake up World, Pakistan is a gone case.
To bail Pakistan out, let us see what amount was spent last year and what is achieved from the expenditure. I think it is 8bn last year and this year the amount pledge amount to 7bn if I am right. Can the cost be compared with what has been achieved? If the answer is no ! then it is like putting money in a bag full of holes. You can never be able to fill it up. On the other development, China’s reserve is a trillion according to reports in a depression of this magnitude, because China in now operating on capitalist principles and in the long run will teach US what capitalism is. Whilst the US is spending all its resources on wars it cannot win. China is accumulating and expanding its markets. I feel Pakistan is a failed state no matter what help is given nothing would be achieved overall.
The whole world should stand and take firm and unanimous stance against the terrorism.
Common stance is essential not only for Pakistan’s security,integrity and solidarity
but also for security of all peace loving people living on this earth.
Be sure time is runing out fastely.
Pakistan is really deserv for more ecnomic assistance being a front line ally against the terrorism so it is the duty of all rich states ,international doners including the United Nations provide it aid to the great extent.
Pakistan is going through horrible crisis it must be saved.
While I’m anything but a isolationist, it bothers me that the States are putting billions more into Pakistan. Obama keeps saying we have to destroy those who carried out 9/11. Al -Queda and the Taliban. Hang on a minute. The Taliban had nothing to do with 9/11.
Consider Obama’s position. He’s continuing lots of Bush’s policies. Who’s going to decide how much to spend? How long will Pakistani security forces have to be “trained?” Will the Stateside MSM continue to censor stories in Iraq, Afghanistan. And NOW Pakistan as well?
Also, Obama can still use the Patriot Act and Bush’s other orders to stop protests. At any time, he can use “other circumstances” to declare martial law. Will the Demcrats risk this in the middle of the global meltdown? At this point, nothing would surprise me.
There is absolutely no need to just think about bailing out pakistan.Pakistan is a responsible state and can defend its soveregnity very well. If the world really wants to stabilize this country then they should stop playing politics in this area. I just wonder to think that why Think Tanks of the whole world dont see the root causes of this terrorism.why they dont stop india (RAW) to involve providing so much support to taliban in Afghanistan and Pakistan.Why they do not see the other side of picture which is clearly portraid by India. Why the world is so much interested to handle the situation with coercive hands. why only non muslim countries are discussing the terrorism in Pakistan and the fear of this problem. It is their own interest because they want to mould ISLAM as they like which can never be happened because a collective force can never be pressed by ironic hands. If the world is really interested to solve the issue, they should stop indian involement seriously otherwise the problem can never be solved even if the rest of world will bail out itself.
When a boat is sinking you have to bail to save the sailors.
If Pakistan needs help from the international community the right thing to do would be to to ask for it to the United Nations, not to the United States. UN is the right place to go and expose its case. A UN debate sould be carried out on this issue to see what the international community is up to in order to solve this probelm which is not purely domestic but it is of international ramifications.
No, it is not the world’s responsibility to bail out Pakistan…..Since, the U.S. has been bailing out the Pakistani state for the best part of 8 years….
~Dennis Junior~
Do you guys realize why Pakistan is in this mess? Pakistan was abandoned by the West several times when it needed it most. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, US completely abandoned Pakistan to take care of the mess it had created with the Taliban. Further, it sanctioned Pakistan! Pakistan’s armed forces relied on US imports, so the country was practically screwed when US sanctioned it. Now when the Taliban are bigger than ever and spreading into Pakistan, US has lost all hope and blaming it on Pakistan’s inability. Maybe if US had always been positive of Pakistan, the situation would be different. US betrayed Pakistan, it’s not the responsibility of America to bail out Pakistan though, however, US should look at the history and see why Pakistan is where it stand today and it should behave more justly.
The US does not want to shed the blood of its citizens in fighting terrorists and has effectively converted the sovereign state of Pakistan into a mercenary country to fight its war. It has done that before when USSR invaded Afghanistan . Now this mercenary is seeking more money, and whatever money is given it should be performance based. This is not the world’s problem but that of the US’s: somebody is demanding more for services rendered. The Paks will beg, borrow but use the money for its army for buying weapons to needle the elephant at the east. The elephant has got a festering wound called Kashmir and Pakistan loves to keep it festering for the sheer joy and bad memories of Bangladesh.
Now Pakistan is a country with only one objective and that is to reinstate the hegemony of Islam in South Asia- bring the old Moghul glory back into the subcontinent. To achieve this the country will not leave any stone unturned: nuclear weapons, madrasas, kashmir, terror. If you look at all the means to its objective, they are all short term and too risky, and some of them have prematurely exploded in its hands. In the sub continent the prevalent philosophy towards an enemy is: “even if I lose two eyes you should lose one of yours. And Pakistan is the finest example.” The country is imploding.
The US knows all this because it has been doling out funds for several decades. Both the countries are used to this. Now, what is the problem? Pull out of Afghanistan and go back home. Decades of prosperous economy has fattened the Americans and they have no stomach for war. When they drop one bomb in the US ensure that the retaliation is 10 times. Pay the Paks, after all this is blood money.
Like Israel, Pakistan has been on the US teat for years without having to deliver much in return. In that respect, are they really different to the car companies?
Dear all, when ever we take initiate for a global cause and make alliances for it. Then we should also take care of our alliances and should take the responsibility of reactions of our initiatives. 9/11 USA call for help Pakistan forcefully/happily become alliance against War on Terror. Helped USA to fight against al-Qaida and attack on Afghanistan even his own country become first target of terrorists. Now after 8 continues years of war and Pakistan bitterly affected then any other alliance of NATO/USA. Should we help or not ??????
Ok, as you like but do remember if Pakistan suffered and world will continue wait & watch policy. It would take some time to overcome 8 years instability & war, but in future soon or late world will suffer and will definitely suffer a lot, as they weakened their own alliances. Do ask the responsible of Iraq & Afghanistan that when they started and destabilized these regions then they are responsible and should take the responsibility to restore peace and do what they claimed. Peace for All
sakashvili still needs US support.he has been a good collaborator with NATO.i hear he is facing a tough rebelion from his own Geogians.
tambua ville,
kenya.
69 drone attacks 589 deaths with no big name from al qaeda, taliban or pakistan taliban. this shows the non-seriousness of american military and CIA leading opeartions.
pakistan’s democratic elected government started smart and packed a deal with local taliban who have been like this for centuries and that will bring peace to those tribal areas.
Zardari is weak but dont you see Muslim League is supporting her?
those who quetion soveriegnty of the country are wrong because they dont know tribal belt has been given these rights in our constitution. It was Musharraf and Musharraf’s supporters who tried to take those rights back.
Uptil now we have spent $35 billion and recieved only $11 Billion and those were for NATO SUPPLY not for urbanization of tribal belt.
So we deserve more. If not money bring more american companies who build for us and provide us logistic support or technological.
For very sure world is still not aware of the seriousness of the situation and Pakistan’s role in it.
What I haven’t seen anywhere is what Pakistan wishes to use the money for.
How much is it asking for and what would it be used for?
Is there a specific defined project in mind or is it to be added to general Govt revenues?
What happens next year?
It’s time for UN Secuirity Counsil to dissolve or atleast make a U turn specially in Isriel case, whick wil bring stability, trust & help in achiving world peace.
Pakistan got an ability to splash Evil state of India, infact this evil state is behaving in a irresponsible way & dont have ability to maintain good relation’s with any one of his neighbourer’s, may be understand birth mother of terrorisam in immediate region.
What NATO & USA canot do Pakistan can do as you know nothing is free.
I would like to ask anyone, who thinks that Pakistan should be bailed, few questions?
Do you know that Pakistan army took president Bush for a ride? On one hand it received billions of dollars to fight terror on the other hand it regrouped and armed the Talibans to fight NATO in Afghanistan.
Do you know that all the Pakistani terrorists cooperate and train together, be it Al-Qaeda, Taliban, Lashkar e Toiba etc?
Do you really believe that Pakistan army/ISI donot know the whereabouts of mullah Omer, head of Taliban? Pakistan is still waiting for NATO troops to leave Afghanistan so that Pak carmy can rule Afghanistan again by using their pet proxy, Taliban.
Do you know that more than 60 % of Pakistan’s GDP comes from business conglomerate owned by Pakistan army? It would not reliquish its hold of power at any cost.
Do you know that Taliban chief, LET chief, Dawood Ibrahim etc are under ISI protection?
Do you think Pakistan army/ISI/Jihadis, who owns Pakistan is going to deviate from their past? I can guarantee you, NO
It will use your money to bomb the poor Baluchis, fund more terrorists training camps, infiltrate jihadis into Kashmir, wage war gainst women. Do you want all these to happen?? If not do not fund Pakistan, let it implode and let United Nations take control of the land and neutralize nuclear weapons.
That is the only way to save the world from this anti human civilization campaign called Pakistan.
The US, Japan and several other countries are pledging aid to Pakistan to fight against terrorism. It is indeed a lopsided, counter productive move. The ground reality is that Pakistan is doing roaring business in terrorism. Their ISI is creating 100 terrorists daily, their army kills 10 out of them and their Government claims reward for ‘fight against terrorism’. Even after 100 years there could not be any end to this cycle. World should pressurize Pakistan to stop production of terrorists first. It is ludicrous to expect a country to fight against terrorism created by itself.
One thing we should be keep in mind when ever the relations between Pakistan and India have gone toward its normalization side, invisible forces came in action to sabotage peace between two nations e.g. Kargal, Bombay attacks and train attack at Amritsar etc and surprisingly they are succeeding so far. In my opinion the leadership of the both nation has never taken any serious effort or fail to expose these forces in the front of international community to get rid and to move forward.
Most people of the India and Pakistan believe that if both nations will decide to live together as a one united country or in a confederation type of solution, no doubt that the peace will come in this region, but in this regard being big brother and responsible country, Indian Leadership having courage to come forward to construct trust building measure between two nations. This will be great help for the both nations as they are both badly suffering due to this endless war.