Donald Lu, the US Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asia, mentioned that President Biden has asked Congress for $1.1 billion in aid for Pakistan.
Donald Lu, a veteran US foreign service officer with over 30 years of government experience, briefed members of the US House of Representatives Committee on the current situation in Pakistan. He highlighted that the United States is committed to supporting democracy and human rights in Pakistan.
Lu disclosed that President Biden has requested $1.1 billion in aid for Pakistan from Congress. This aid is intended to assist Pakistan in several areas, including its efforts against terrorism, economic reforms, and debt relief. Lu emphasized that this financial support aims to help stabilize Pakistan’s economy.
In Pakistan, Donald Lu is a significant figure, particularly known for his involvement in what’s referred to as the “cipher” controversy. This controversy revolves around alleged diplomatic communications between Washington and Islamabad, which some in Pakistan, including the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), claim as evidence of a US-led conspiracy to orchestrate his removal as prime minister.
Speaking before a subcommittee of the US panel, Donald Lu, the US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, firmly dismissed Imran Khan’s “cipher conspiracy theory” as untrue and baseless.
Lu clarified, “Imran Khan’s cipher conspiracy theory is a lie and it is a complete falsehood.” He emphasized that the theory falsely accuses the US government, including himself, of plotting against Imran Khan. Additionally, Lu pointed out that the former Pakistani ambassador to the US, who was also present in the meeting, has confirmed to his own government that there was no such conspiracy.
In his role as the top US diplomat overseeing South and Central Asia in the State Department, Donald Lu holds significant responsibility for US foreign policy in the region.
