U.S. President Trump has announced the cancellation of 83% of USAID programs, impacting countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh that previously received substantial aid. This decision prioritizes U.S. national interests, halting multiple developmental projects in these nations.
The recent announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding significant cuts to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has heightened tensions in countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh. Under this directive, 83% of USAID programs are being canceled, as detailed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the social media platform, X. These cuts are expected to impact nations that previously received substantial financial aid.
Secretary Rubio emphasized that this decision followed a comprehensive six-week review. He asserted that the funding was often not aligned with America’s core national interests, declaring, “We were paying those who were doing our detriment.” As a result, the reduction aims to discontinue expenditure on programs that do not bolster U.S. interests.
This decision leaves only 18% of the aid programs intact, approximately 1000 programs, which will continue only if they are deemed beneficial to the United States. Rubio noted that the Department of Global Engagement (DOGE) was instrumental in identifying the weaknesses that allowed U.S. funds to be misallocated. Historical data reveals that Bangladesh received $440 million, Pakistan $231 million, and Sri Lanka $123 million in assistance, with many projects now halted as a consequence of this funding cut.
There are concerns that a portion of USAID funds was reportedly allocated towards anti-India initiatives in both Pakistan and Bangladesh, clouding future relations and development efforts in these countries.
In conclusion, President Trump’s decision to cut 83% of USAID funding will have significant repercussions for Pakistan and Bangladesh, countries that have traditionally relied on this aid. The move aims to assure that American funds are used strictly to benefit U.S. interests. As a result, many programs will cease, potentially stalling developmental efforts in these nations.
Original Source: www.india.com
