Kerry-Lugar bill tabled in US House of Representatives

Washington, Sep.26 (ANI): The much awaited Kerry-Lugar bill, which seeks 1.5 billion dollars of annual assistance to Pakistan for the next five years, has been tabled in the US Lower House following the Senate's approval.

Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Howard Berman, while welcoming the Senate's decision, tabled the bill in the House of Representatives.

"After several weeks of discussions and negotiations, this step now clears the way for US efforts to help create a better future for Pakistan," Berman said.

Berman also expressed hope that the bill would be passed by the House soon, and said the assistance reflected Washington's determination to help Pakistan come out of the crises facing it currently.

"Our bicameral, bipartisan legislation demonstrates our intention to cement effective partnerships with the people, leaders, and institutions of Pakistan. I look forward to seeing it pass the House soon," The Daily Times quoted Berman, as saying.

The measure triples US democratic, economic, and social development assistance to Pakistan to 1.5 billion dollar a year, with a focus on health and education services. (ANI)