WASHINGTON, Sept 25 (APP): The Kerry-Lugar Bill on $ 7.5 billion assistance for Pakistan from FY-2010 to 2014, passed unanimously by the U.S. Senate on Thursday, is far less restrictive than its original version.The same version of the bipartisan bill was introduced Thursday in the U.S.

House of Reprsentatives, hours after President Barack Obama hailed the development and reaffirmed a strong commitment to Pakistan’s economic development. The measure, subject to progress  made during this period, will authorize $ 1.5 annually for Pakistan over the next five years.

Named Enhanced Partnership with Pakistan Act, the Bill has a strong support of the Departments of State and Defense and is a compromise between legislation previously introduced in the House, and then the Senate.

The bill also acknowledges Pakistan as a critical friend and ally and recognizes the profound sacrifices it has made in the war on terror.

According to legislative experts, the bill is far less prescriptive and stringent in its language that the original version. Specific references to India as well as AQ Khan, contained in the previous version, have been eliminated. 

The language related to nuclear proliferation is markedly toned down from to ensure access of US investigators to individual suspected” to receiving cooperation” in efforts such as providing relevant information from or direct access to Pakistani nationals associated with such networks.”

In addition, there is a waiver for almost every condition. Besides, the Bill requires a waiver from  the “Secretary of State and not from the President” as was proposed is the House version.

The Bill authorizes that funds may be provided for FMF, counter insurgency capability and  IMET programs. It underlines the importance of supporting Pakistan’s national security needs to fight the ongoing counterinsurgency and improve its border security and control.

However, it does not specify any amount or percentage. This provides the Administration maximum flexibility.

Besides, none of the conditions can set in motion automatic sanctions.