Move Toward Better Ties
Move Toward Better Ties: Pakistan and the United States are improving their relationship after years of tension. This change has surprised many observers and raised questions about whether it marks a real and lasting shift.
For over two decades, U.S. policy toward Pakistan followed a strict pattern. American officials often accused Pakistan of playing a double game in Afghanistan and being too close to China. At the same time, the U.S. focused on India, seeing it as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific region.
Pakistan Gains Ground
Now, the situation is changing. Pakistan has gained more attention from the U.S. The Biden and Trump administrations have both shown signs of rebalancing ties in South Asia. Meanwhile, U.S. relations with India have cooled due to disagreements over trade, immigration, and regional conflicts.
However, many U.S. officials still view India as a more reliable partner. These officials, who shaped policy during the Obama years, understand India’s concerns better than Pakistan’s. This could limit how far the shift in U.S. policy will go.
Pakistan’s Strategic Balancing
Pakistan also faces its own challenges. It relies heavily on China for trade, investment, and defense. If the U.S. pressures Pakistan to distance itself from China, tensions may rise—similar to current U.S. pressure on India over its ties with Russia. For this reason, Pakistan wants to see the U.S. and China continue to cooperate.
Despite these obstacles, Islamabad now has several opportunities. First, the U.S. is once again focused on the Middle East, especially after the Gaza conflict. Pakistan’s role in the region has grown due to its ties with Saudi Arabia and its involvement in regional peace efforts.
Shifting Regional Dynamics
Second, India’s trust in the U.S. has been shaken. Even if trade talks move forward, Indian officials may hesitate to fully rely on Washington. This gives Pakistan a chance to push for a more balanced U.S. approach in South Asia.
Third, Pakistan has proposed joint projects with the U.S. in trade, minerals, and energy. If Islamabad moves quickly, it could build lasting cooperation with Washington that continues beyond the next American administration.
Strengthening Pakistan’s Future
Still, experts say a strong Pak-U.S. partnership will only last if Pakistan improves governance at home. That means strengthening democracy, boosting the economy, and ensuring better social progress. Without these steps, any reset in relations may not hold for long.
Published in Dawn, 3rd October, 2025
