US, Pakistan: needy partners

Opinion: July 25, 2011 at 12:00a.m.

Akron Beacon Journal: Will Pakistan respond well to White House pressure?

It hasn’t in the past.

After the Sept. 11 attacks, George W. Bush presented a choice to Pakistani leaders: join the fight against al-Qaida or the United States would view your country as a foe. Pakistan sided with Washington. Progress in this volatile region involves enduring if flawed ties to Pakistan.

The Obama White House insists it has as much in mind with its recent decision to suspend $800 million in military aid and equipment to Pakistan.

This is a moment for persuasion, difficult as the task clearly is. Thus, the worry that a rap on the knuckles serves to push Pakistan away.