In his recent guest column, Rep. Coffman says that he has "decided to go forward with legislation that will end all U. S. economic aid to Pakistan."  While all of us share his frustration with actions of the Pakistani government, it is only fair to ask what are the consequences of this policy.

Such action may well lead to the loss of any influence we may have in Pakistan and deprive us of the opportunity to assist people and organizations who share our understanding of the threats to our country and theirs. Rather than an across the board cut of all economic aid, it is in our interest to have a targeted policy which helps build institutions and organizations that can act to create and strengthen a more prosperous and democratic Pakistani society.

Abandoning a country with nuclear weapons and internal groups that can do grave damage to peace and prosperity is hardly a wise policy.  If this is the best policy we can imagine and support, we are truly in a terrible situation.  

Mr. Coffman also makes an issue of his military service but this too is not quite so simple as he implies.  A good combat veteran in WWII fought with and for his fellow troops in fox holes that were completely besieged.  Such a stance strikes me as more patriotic than one he seems to take, which says "flee when the going gets tough." 

Surely brave, courageous and thoughtful people can devise more effective policies and build stronger ties to allies who may be weak and ineffective. And, if we do not, we should not be surprised to see a more difficult situation emerge.

Henry M.Barlow