India flags US’ support for Pakistan’s F-16s
Reportedly, India had warned that it would discontinue talks with the US on Pacific trade.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in a telephonic conversation with his US counterpart Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin today, conveyed India’s concerns about the US’ recent decision to provide sustenance package for Pakistan’s F-16 fleet.
Under the QUAD, India is an ally of the US, Japan and Australia, with the aim of ensuring safety and security in the Indo-pacific region. Defence ties between the two countries have strengthened with the recent spark between China and Taiwan.
However, the US’ decision to continue supporting Pakistan’s F-16 fleet upset India. Reportedly, India had warned that it would discontinue talks with the US on Pacific trade.
According to a government statement, during today’s talks, the two sides reviewed “the multi-faceted India-US defence cooperation” and reiterated mutual commitment to further strengthen military-to-military ties.
Secretary Austin said he looked forward to further strengthening India-US defence industrial and technology collaboration.