What is the Kerry-Lugar bill ?
The Kerry-Lugar bill is essentially a nonmilitary aid package granted to Pakistan by the U.S. in view of its precarious economic condition due to its indulgence in the "War on Terror" as a front line allied state.
This bill grants Pakistan 7.5 billion dollars over the period of five years (1.5 billion annually) and comes along with stringent conditions on how to distribute and invest this money.
The conditions along with this bill come in the shape of military as well as economic checks which have instigated a lot of debate in this country and agitated its bloggers as well.
Note: I think the bill has now been revised to eliminate a lot of the conditions.
What is the response to the Kerry-Lugar bill in Pakistan and the U.S. ?
Well, from what I've seen so far, Pakistan is pretty divided in their response. Some view it as an insult, while others claim it is "fair payment" for all the services they have performed for the U.S.
In the U.S., on the other hand, the response I've seen is overwhelmingly negative toward the bill. Many people are opposed to our government spending still more money it doesn't have, especially for a foreign country.
~Lady Liberty~
Do you agree with the Kerry-Luger bill?
ReplyDeleteI would also like to hear your opinion on the bill. Do YOU support it, Jordan?
ReplyDeleteWhere is the money going to come from?
ReplyDeleteI think the money will probably be borrowed from some other country and add to our deficit.
ReplyDeleteIn answer to your questions, Jordan and Abby, No, I personally do not agree with our government spending American tax dollars in such a way. I think if Mr. Kerry and Mr. Lugar want to give money to Pakistan, they should take it from their own pockets and/or take private donations. But it's a lot easier to spend money which does not belong to one's self.
ReplyDeleteI would like to know your opinions as well.