Pakistan to bring 'tough foreign policy' for U.S., if its ally status is lowered

Pakistan has decided to bring a tough foreign policy for the United States, if Islamabad's ally stature is lowered by Washington.

The Pakistan Government has prepared a three-option policy, apparently 'the toughest diplomatic policy' against the U.S. sanctions on the country, the Express Tribune reported.

The official sources have said that the policy includes gradual decline in diplomatic relations with the U.S., limiting mutual cooperation on terrorism-related issues and non-cooperation in the U.S. strategy for Afghanistan.

Moreover, the last option may include a complete ban on using Pakistan land of North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) supplies to Afghanistan.

However, it will only be implemented after the approval of Pakistan's National Security Committe and keeping in view Trump's policy for Pakistan.

While announcing his strategy for Afghanistan, Trump had earlier slammed Pakistan for providing safe havens to Afghan jihadis, including the Haqqani network.

Trump said, "Pakistan has much to lose by continuing to harbour terrorists. No partnership can survive with the harbouring of militants."

The U.S. President also pledged to use a variety of diplomatic, military and economic tools to combat terrorism.

Earlier, U.S. Senator John McCain had issued a stern warning to Pakistan's civilian and military leaders to act against the Haqqani network if Islamabad intends to remain a close ally of Washington. Senator McCain's statement showed that the Trump administration is considering to impose sanctions on Pakistan if Islamabad continues to support the Haqqani network and other terror groups. 

-ANI