Lawmakers: Diplomatic issue threatens Pakistan aid

[sonicboom]

Lawmakers: Diplomatic issue threatens Pakistan aid

The Associated Press
Tuesday, February 8, 2011; 4:55 PM

WASHINGTON -- Two top members of the House Armed Services Committee say U.S. aid to Pakistan is in jeopardy if the country fails to release an American Embassy employee who shot and killed two Pakistanis.

Republican congressmen Howard "Buck" McKeon of California and John Kline of Minnesota said Tuesday they met with Pakistani officials during a trip there and made clear there would be repercussions if the American were not released.

McKeon, the committee chairman, says that, as the House considers various spending bills, efforts could be made to cut funds for Pakistan.

The American, identified as Raymond Davis, shot two men on Jan. 27 in the eastern city of Lahore. Pakistani officials say Davis' fate is up to courts in Punjab province, while provincial officials say the federal government must decide.


Lawmakers: Diplomatic issue threatens Pakistan aid