There is always hope that new legislation will change relationships and improve development. In reality, the solution is a long term process, said Mirza Jahani, Chief Executive Officer of the Aga Khan Foundation, in an exclusive interview. “To be a better aid agency you need to have your people there for longer periods of time with increased tour lengths of individuals.”
No one disputes the strategic importance of the relationship between Pakistan and the United States. Similarly, there is also recognition of the tensions and differences that must be navigated to make the relationship work for both sides. The Kerry-Lugar-Berman (KLB) Act, signed into law by President Obama more than 2 years ago, was intended to have a positive impact on the equation. But the U.S. civilian assistance program funded by the act is now under fire in both countries. The Wilson Center's Asia Program convened a working group to reevaluate the aid program and recently released its findings in a report that calls for significant changes. Read the full report.
For further insight, we spoke with one of the members of working group, Mirza Jahani. Mr. Jahani is Chief Executive Officer of the Aga Khan Foundation USA, an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network. Previously he served as the foundation's CEO in the UK, East Africa, and Tajikistan.
The Indo-Pacific Program promotes policy debate and intellectual discussions on US interests in the Asia-Pacific as well as political, economic, security, and social issues relating to the world’s most populous and economically dynamic region. Read more
