How US foreign policy affects state repression

In addition to the goals of alleviating poverty, encouraging democratic social and political forces, fostering economic growth and stability, and cultivating bilateral relations in Asia, since September 2001, the United States has redoubled its efforts in fighting terrorism in parts of the region. This report discusses changing U.S. aid programs for 16 East Asian and South Asian countries. After the war on terrorism began, the United States promised increases of 17% and 250% to East Asia and South Asia, respectively. In South Asia, Pakistan and India have become "front line" states in the U.S. campaign against terrorism. For years, the United States has restricted foreign assistance to many countries in East and South Asia in order to encourage democracy and reduce the spread of nuclear weapons capabilities.