OPINION:
Now that a Chinese mining company has pulled out of a $19 billion deal with Pakistan because of safety concerns, it is the perfect time to replace all U.S. aid to Pakistan, estimated by the Guardian newspaper at $5.9 billion in 2010 alone, with a shopping list of wanted terrorists.
The United States can afford to pay handsomely for these terrorists, making billions of dollars available to Pakistan in exchange for capturing or killing terrorists who are killing U.S. and Afghani troops and civilians.
Pakistan certainly has the means to do this, as it has the seventh-largest army in the world, with an estimated 952,000 troops. Unfortunately, 80 percent to 90 percent of them are stationed along the Indian border as a result of Pakistan’s perpetual fantasy that it will be invaded by India.
A shopping list of terrorists would have numerous beneficial effects. First, it would eliminate the double-dealing by Pakistan’s military and intelligence services. Second, it would encourage Pakistan to grow up by giving up its Indian attack fantasy. Finally, it could force Pakistan to consider whether it really wants thousands of radical madrassas in its country, grooming an endless supply of suicide bombers.
BOB PRICHARD
Tiburon, Calif.
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