India conveys its concerns to US over military sales to Pakistan

NEW DELHI: New Delhi has conveyed its concerns to the US over sale of missiles and attack helicopters to Pakistan, saying it must take into account Indo-US ties and the impact on India's security before firming up such supplies.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha, also said the government keeps a constant watch on all developments that have a bearing on India's national interest and takes necessary steps to safeguard it.

"Most recently, we have noted that the US State Department made a determination approving possible Foreign Military Sales to Pakistan of AH-1Z Viper Attack Helicopters and AGM-114R Hellfire II Missiles and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of USD 952 million.

"Government has sensitised the US of our concerns on US military sales to Pakistan. Government has consistently conveyed to the US that it must take into account India-US relations and the impact on India's security in deciding its military assistance to Pakistan," Swaraj said.

In April, the US approved sale of USD 952 million worth of attack helicopters, missiles and other defence equipment to Pakistan to help the country with its counter-terrorism operations, but said the deal would "not alter" the military balance in the region.