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Aid under U.S. Congress scanner

WASHINGTON: Congress is taking a second look at U.S. aid to Pakistan in the wake of President Pervez Musharraf’s declaration of emergency rule and a crackdown on his political opponents. But the Bush administration is concerned about going too far in rebuking a close anti-terror ally.

The White House on Wednesday continued to defend its relatively mild and measured public response to the crisis since it developed over the weekend. The administration’s response stands in sharp contrast to how it responded when Myanmar’s military regime cracked down on pro-democracy protesters in September, for instance.

“It’s been about five days,” said White House press secretary Dana Perino. “I grant you that it feels long for all of us who are interested in wanting to get instant reaction. We are trying to get Pakistan back on its path to democracy.”

The Bush administration is seeking $800 million for Pakistan for the current budget year. Since 2001, the U.S. has provided Pakistan with an estimated $9.6 billion.

Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte was scheduled to testify on Wednesday about Pakistan before the House Foreign Affairs Committee. It was unclear whether he would announce any changes to U.S. policy.

Gen. Musharraf’s actions have drawn widespread criticism in Congress.

Representative Jane Harman, a Democrat, said U.S. military and economic aid should be suspended until Musharraf reverses the crackdown. — AP

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