Dear President Biden, Greetings,
PLEASE accept our heartiest congratulations on the 248th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. This monumental occasion not only marks the birth of the United States as a nation but also serves as a testament to the enduring principles of liberty, democracy and justice that continue to inspire people around the world.
Over the past 75 years, the friendship between Pakistan and the United States has been characterized by significant cooperation and mutual support. Our two nations have stood together through numerous challenges and crises, fostering a relationship built on shared values and common goals. A recent notable example is Pakistan’s crucial assistance during the urgent evacuation of US military personnel and civilians from Afghanistan in August 2021.
This support was instrumental in facilitating a safe and orderly withdrawal during a highly volatile period. Moreover, Pakistan’s substantial contributions throughout the Afghan war (2001-2021), including the free provision of air corridors to nearly 50 coalition countries, underscore our unwavering commitment to regional stability and global peace. However, these contributions have come at an immense human, economic and opportunity cost to Pakistan, amounting to losses far exceeding tens of trillions of dollars. Despite these sacrifices, Pakistan often feels abandoned when in need of American support. A recent instance is the resolution passed in the US House of Representatives, which Pakistan views as unwarranted interference in its internal affairs.
Currently, Pakistan is grappling with an unprecedented economic crisis exacerbated by soaring energy costs and the fallout from the Afghan conflict. This crisis has led to severe hardship and unrest among the populace, posing a significant risk of instability that could have far-reaching consequences for the region and beyond. Given these circumstances, urgent American assistance is crucial. We request an immediate one-time budgetary grant of $5 billion to help stabilize our economy and support our most vulnerable citizens. Additionally, we deserve a waiver to import oil and gas from Iran, similar to allowances made for India to import from sanctioned countries like Iran and Russia. Such measures would provide much-needed relief and help alleviate the economic pressures currently facing our nation.
We sincerely hope that the United States government will recognize the gravity of Pakistan’s situation and take appropriate urgent measures before it is too late. Doing so would underscore the mutual commitment to our longstanding friendship and dispel any notion that while a country can survive without being friends with America, it cannot endure its friendship. Our two nations have a long history of cooperation and support, and it is in the spirit of this enduring partnership that America come forward to economically stabilise Pakistan.
Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. We remain hopeful that, with your support, Pakistan can navigate through these challenging times and continue to contribute to the peace and stability of our shared global community.
—The author writes on strategic, political, economic, current affairs & sports.
