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Abdul Mohi Shah in Islamabad
The United States may resume sales of military equipment to Pakistan.
According to reports, the US may offer helicopter gunships and intelligence-gathering equipment to Pakistan for patrolling the rugged terrain on the 1600 mile-long border with Afghanistan.
According to reports quoting an unnamed interior ministry official, US Ambassador Wendy Chamberlin has shown a willingness to put together a $75 million package for Islamabad to help it keep a watch on the porous borders.
Pakistan is, however, yet to make up its mind what type of equipment it would need on an emergency basis, but claimed that it would include helicopters and hi-tech intelligence equipment to prevent infiltration.
There are said to be more than 200 crossings on the border, on mule and foot tracks, besides the established routes at Torkham and Chaman, which are closed now. The Pashtun tribals, having ethnic links across the border, also provide escape routes.
According to reports, the government is also considering some quick arms deals that could be presented as an example of Pakistan's renewed friendship with the US.
These reports suggest that Pakistan is considering buying jet fighters, which are now available for hard cash after some of the sanctions on Islamabad were lifted last weekend.
Section 508 still prevents the United States from financing the sale of military hardware to Pakistan or training its personnel.
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