Pakistan and the United States have a relationship shaped by their mutual political needs, and both countries’ political and military leaderships are aware of this, which keeps the desire for bilateral relations alive. However, in today’s context, where Pakistan faces various domestic challenges, the support of the US is crucial for improving regional and global relations. Despite this, the nature of relations between the two countries remains quite complex. Yet, there are aspects of warmth in these relations, but tension and mistrust also persist, reflecting numerous ups and downs.
Some fundamental issues in Pakistan-US relations include a lack of trust. Other issues involve Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, the US’s role or concerns and expectations, bilateral economic cooperation possibilities, internal and regional security, bilateral interests, communication-related matters, CPEC and US concerns, Pakistan-India relations, the Kashmir issue and the US’s role, extremism, terrorism, and the role of the Afghan Taliban (TTP), as well as Pakistan-China relations and the US perspective. It must be understood that any improvement in the mistrust between Pakistan and the US would benefit both countries directly, not just one.
The US views the growing relationship and influence between Pakistan and China, as well as the increasing strategic and economic ties between the two countries, as potentially problematic. The US is concerned that the strengthening of Pakistan-China relations could also create problems for its important partner, India, and harm US interests in the region.
The US wants Pakistan to adopt a balanced policy rather than relying heavily on China and to consider US interests. Regarding terrorism, the US believes that Pakistan’s role is not aligned with US expectations, which has led to ongoing pressure from the US. Pakistan’s stance is that it requires bilateral relations with the US based on trust rather than suspicion, excessive pressure, or mere allegations. The interference of the US in regional politics, including support for India’s dominance, and issues such as Kashmir, the role of the US in Afghanistan, and Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts, should be addressed without undermining Pakistan’s interests.
Pakistan desires clear and transparent cooperation and trust from the US in addressing the significant challenges it faces. While the US supports India, this support should not come at the expense of Pakistan’s interests. Pakistan seeks balanced relations with China that do not conflict with US interests and does not wish to adopt a policy that pits it against the US.
Regarding global institutions, especially financial ones like the IMF, the US should adopt a positive approach in resolving any issues or obstacles in these matters, understanding that such processes should not be based on dictation. Pakistan’s security policy clearly states its intention to focus on regional stability based on economic cooperation and avoiding conflicts. The US should stand with Pakistan in this endeavor.
Pakistan also expects US cooperation in combating terrorism, where Pakistan-China relations and cooperation should be supported by the US to collectively address terrorism in the region. Pakistan’s main challenge lies in internal political issues, and the lack of focused diplomacy in regional and global politics is apparent. The new Pakistani ambassador to the US, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, and the Foreign Ministry must play a role in overcoming the current deadlock or mistrust in Pakistan-US relations through a robust political and foreign policy strategy.
The real challenge is that Pakistan and the US must effectively address issues related to improving relations and develop a narrative with the help of various global think tanks and opinion-makers to ensure that their positions are heard, understood, and strengthened through bilateral actions. The modern world requires deepened diplomacy and leveraging media, especially digital media. Addressing concerns about Pakistan through dialogue with the new US ambassador could help mitigate misunderstandings. The failure of our political leadership to effectively address these issues and shifting the burden onto one party highlights a weakness. Investing in strong political and diplomatic efforts can lead to significant achievements.