ISLAMABAD (AP) — Pakistan’s army chief says billions of dollars in U.S. aid meant for the military’s fight against Islamist militants should be diverted to bolster the economy and help ordinary Pakistanis.
The announcement could be seen as a snub to the U.S. and an attempt to bolster the military’s popularity following the American raid that killed Osama bin Laden.
Gen. Ashfaq Parvez Kayani reiterated that the army has ceased its training relationship with the U.S. and has restricted the scope of intelligence sharing. He also said American drone attacks are unacceptable and declined U.S. calls for an operation in the militant-infested North Waziristan tribal area.
Kayani’s positions were outlined in an unusually detailed statement issued Thursday after a meeting with his top commanders.
