Is the US EXIM Bank's $1.25 Billion Support for Pakistan’s Reko Diq Mining Project a Cause for Concern?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The BNM criticizes U.S. financial support for Pakistan, asserting it worsens human rights abuses.
- The $1.25 billion funding is seen as a threat to the Baloch people's rights and resources.
- Concerns include potential military escalation and forced displacements in Balochistan.
- The U.S. is urged to reconsider its role in empowering oppressive regimes.
- Awareness of local struggles is essential for ethical investment practices.
Quetta, Dec 12 (NationPress) The Baloch National Movement (BNM) has raised significant alarms regarding the $1.25 billion financing from the United States EXIM Bank to Pakistan for the Reko Diq mining initiative located in Balochistan. They warn that any financial aid to Islamabad could exacerbate the human rights violations endured by the Baloch people.
BNM’s representative, Qazi Dad Mohammad Rehan, articulated that this recent agreement involving EXIM Bank, US authorities, and Pakistan breaches international standards and moral principles.
“We have profound and serious concerns about this action. We have consistently stated that any financial support or economic collaboration with Pakistan directly facilitates further genocide against the Baloch nation, enforced disappearances, and the systematic exploitation of our natural resources,” Rehan remarked.
The spokesperson emphasized that the new US financial package of $1.25 billion for Pakistan, under the pretense of ‘development’ in Balochistan, will actually bolster projects that are likely to lead to “escalated military operations, forced relocations of local communities, and an intensified appropriation of Baloch resources.”
He pointed out that the US, having fought against colonial oppression and being cognizant of the historical ramifications of suppressing national liberation movements, should recognize the consequences of such a partnership.
“Every national movement throughout history has resisted external domination, despite power disparities, until their rightful national and historical goals were achieved. This collaboration with Pakistan undermines the Baloch national movement and strengthens state oppression,” the spokesperson underlined.
Rehan further indicated that American financial backing will ultimately lead to the establishment of more military installations and checkpoints in Balochistan, the enhancement of surveillance systems, the exploitation of natural resources, and efforts to suppress Baloch resistance.
“Under these conditions, EXIM’s financing equates to providing essential support to Pakistan’s occupation and the ongoing genocide of the Baloch nation,” he emphasized.
He stressed the need for the US to reflect on its own conscience and values before celebrating appealing investments in Balochistan.
“Thousands of Baloch youth are currently suffering in clandestine Pakistan Army detention facilities under inhumane conditions, while countless mothers and sisters have become living symbols of sorrow as they await their loved ones. In such dire circumstances, US assistance does not mend the wounds of the Baloch nation; it deepens them,” he added.
The BNM expressed hope that the American conscience will oppose Pakistan’s oppression instead of “empowering it in the name of investment.”