Flying into flak; controversy mires major arms deals in Pakistan

Article Abstract:

The government of Pakistan's Prime Minister Benezir Bhutto has encountered obstacles and opposition to the planned purchase of 32 French Mirage 2000-5 fighter aircraft. The 1990 Pressler Amendment prohibits the US from providing military aid to Pakistan and other arms suppliers are unwilling to supply equipment given the country's serious fiscal problems. The controversial deal's $4 billion price tag has Western donors of aid concerned that it will damage Pakistan's already frail economy. Some Pakistan military officers contend that the deal is too expensive and does not provide for any transfer of technology.

Author: Rashid, Ahmed
Contracts, Military policy, Mirage 2000 (Aircraft), Pakistan. Air Force

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Flaying the feudals: ruling elite faces ever more hostile flak

Article Abstract:

Pakistan's feudal landlords face increasing public hostility over their immunity from most taxes and their apparent inability, despite overwhelming control of the government, to solve the country's problems. An Oct 28, 1995 announcement of a 7% depreciation of the rupee, a 5% tariff on industrial raw materials, a 10% levy on most imports, and a 7% hike in fuel prices angered common people and exporters alike, while hardly affecting the so-called feudals. Inflation is especially worrisome, and could rise 10% from its 25% level.

Author: Rashid, Ahmed
Landlords

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On the stumps; Imran Khan launches a political movement

Article Abstract:

International celebrity Imran Khan has launched a political movement in Pakistan called Movement for Justice or Tehreek-e-Insaaf which will be a first step towards forming a political party. Khan has a high public profile as captain of the Pakistan national team that won the 1992 cricket world cup and as the husband of the 22-year old daughter of millionaire politician James Goldsmith of the UK. The movement will reform political corruption in Pakistan and set a moral example according to Khan.

Author: Rashid, Ahmed
Khan, Imran

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Subjects list: Pakistan, Political activity, Political aspects
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