In a significant turn of events, Pakistan has formally requested the United States to assist them in tackling their immediate economic and security challenges. It occurred during a meeting between Ambassador Donald Blome and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Tuesday.
Rising Security Apprehensions
The meeting was held in the backdrop of a surge in violence in Balochistan, where more than 70 people were killed due to different terrorist attacks last month. One of the most horrific incidents happened in Musakhail, in which unidentified armed men stopped trucks and buses, off-loaded the passengers, and killed them after checking their identity.
Following an appeal by the government of Pakistan for help, U.S. State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller announced: “The United States and Pakistan have a shared interest in confronting regional security challenges.” He added that the U.S. stood “shoulder to shoulder with Pakistan in its counter-terrorism campaign,” condemning attacks that had recently claimed lives.
Energy Crisis and U.S. Support
The talk also encompassed the abysmal energy situation of Pakistan. In the backdrop of Iran’s last warning to Pakistan regarding the gas pipeline project, besides the specter looming large over it of a $ 18 billion fine, Miller reaffirmed the U.S.’s stance on the imposition of sanctions on Iran. He warned any person against pursuing business deals with Iran, saying, “I would say that businesses should beware.”.
Miller further said that the energy deficiency in Pakistan is a point of concern for the U.S., and both governments are in discussion for energy security development.
Considering all these security and economic challenges to Pakistan, its leadership is making efforts to get support at an international level. The recent engagement with the U.S. is indicative of a continued collaboration towards stability in the region and assistance on key issues related to terrorism and energy crises.