Washington: Joe Biden, the U.S. Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs, appeared before the House Committee to comprehensively brief the current situation in Pakistan and Afghanistan. He gave an in-depth presentation on different elements of U.S. foreign policy and their implications for both countries.
He underlined that this is a priority relationship for the United States government, so it will continue partnering with Pakistan to support democracy and human rights there. President Joe Biden has asked Congress for $101 million in new aid to Pakistan as part of his broader strategy to strengthen the country’s capacity across several key areas.
According to Lu
These funds are expected to be used mainly towards ongoing counterterrorism efforts within Pakistan itself; however, they should also address some economic reforms that could help achieve sustainable growth rates over time while creating jobs—primarily through infrastructure development projects designed specifically around improving living conditions among poor communities living near terrorist hotspots, where most recruits come from.
Joe Biden is countering terrorists domestically; more money needs to be invested in economic reform within Islamabad since stability breeds local and regional prosperity, too. Hence, these monies must target complex infrastructure like roads, networks, etc., alongside soft ones such as education systems so that people can get skills needed by employers, thus reducing dependence upon handouts from abroad, Lu said.
Additionally
He noted the importance of debt relief programs given how heavily indebted many governments in developing nations, including Pakistan. They remain today despite being classified as income countries primarily because corruption undermines public trust. It difficult to attract investments required to finance vital sectors like health or education. These are critical drivers towards poverty reduction strategies within the societies concerned. Above all, ensuring citizens access to clean water, sanitation facilities, safe housing, environmental protection measures, etcetera.
As far as Afghanistan goes, Donald Lu expressed grave concern over it. The worsening situation faced by women plus other minority groups under Taliban rule. Emphasizing the deep worry held by the thin U.S. administration concerning rights. Freedoms enjoyed are presently available to all Afghan citizens, particularly female ethnicities. Who could become victims if no significant positive change occurs soon enough? Lu stressed, therefore. The need to normalize relations between Washington DC and Kabul authorities depends mainly on whether this happens.
Further Demanded The Immediate
He further demanded the immediate release of any U.S. citizen still being held captive by insurgents while stating clearly. The safety of these individuals remains the number one priority. Until such people were freed, no business would be conducted without some strict action against those responsible. Thus far, keeping them hostage.
