Washington, DC—Senator Jim Webb (D-VA) today issued the following statement on the passage of the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2009:
“Today I voted for the Supplemental Appropriations Act to provide funding for military operations and assistance to support U.S. strategic objectives in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
“In the last week, I have repeatedly expressed to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff my serious concerns about the need for greater accountability and transparency in U.S. aid programs for Pakistan. These programs should address the terrorist threat, the activities of the Taliban, or civilian assistance programs specified in the law.
“I introduced an amendment that sought to shed light on the potential use of U.S. assistance to advance Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities and its focus on India rather than on the areas near Afghanistan for which assistance is intended. I did so in order to address the issue of reciprocity from the Pakistani government and to assure countries in the region that our efforts are related to fighting terrorism and not building up another nation’s defense capabilities.
“As a result of my exchange with Admiral Mullen in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing this morning, I have decided not to pursue the amendment. Admiral Mullen assured me that the Pentagon and While House will work with my Senate office to ensure that there is transparency and accountability in our assistance to Pakistan.
“While I believe the Administration deserves an opportunity to try to bring greater stability to the region, measurable controls must be put in place to ensure that funding from our own government meets our national objectives. I look forward to working with the Administration to ensure that assistance is used in consonance with the interests of the U.S. and don’t spill over into other Pakistani strategic interests.”