The recent meeting of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir with U.S. President Donald Trump marks an important turning point in Pakistan–America relations. It is not just another diplomatic encounter; it is a reminder of the deep historical partnership between Islamabad and Washington, and a signal that both sides are ready to rediscover common ground. For Pakistan, it is an opportunity to reinforce its role as a responsible regional player and a reliable ally. For the United States, it is a moment to recognize Pakistan’s enduring relevance to its strategic goals in South Asia and beyond.
A Friendship with Deep Roots
To understand the significance of this meeting, we must recall the trajectory of Pakistan–America relations. During the Cold War era, Pakistan stood firmly by the United States and the West. It played a critical role in protecting American interests in the region and ensured that Washington achieved many of its strategic objectives. Whether it was joining security alliances like SEATO and CENTO, serving as a conduit for U.S.–China rapprochement in the 1970s, or supporting American efforts in Afghanistan during the Soviet invasion, Pakistan consistently demonstrated its commitment as a trusted ally.
This longstanding partnership was not built overnight. It was rooted in shared strategic concerns, mutual respect, and the belief that peace and stability in South Asia required cooperation. Pakistan shouldered responsibilities well beyond its size, often at great sacrifice.
The Era of Drift
Over time, however, this relationship began to drift. A new narrative emerged in Washington that tilted heavily toward India. The assumption was that New Delhi could serve as the primary partner to counterbalance China’s rise and safeguard American interests in the Indo-Pacific. In this strategic calculation, Pakistan was often sidelined or viewed narrowly through the prism of Afghanistan.
But history has proven otherwise. India, despite enjoying years of preferential treatment and strategic courtesies, has failed to demonstrate either the capability or the political will to advance American objectives. Nowhere was this more evident than in Afghanistan, where India’s role remained limited while Pakistan bore the brunt of instability, hosting millions of Afghan refugees and sacrificing lives and resources in the fight against terrorism.
The United States’ hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan highlighted the shortcomings of its overreliance on India and its sidelining of Pakistan. Without Pakistan’s cooperation, Washington could not achieve an orderly exit or a sustainable peace.
Realization in Washington
There is now a growing realization in Washington, particularly under President Trump’s administration, that Pakistan is not only relevant but also indispensable. Unlike India, Pakistan has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to protect American interests and to help achieve strategic objectives in the region. From counterterrorism cooperation to facilitating peace talks, Pakistan has the experience, infrastructure, and willingness to act as a stabilizing partner.
President Trump’s recognition of this fact is a welcome development. His willingness to engage directly with Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership underscores a pragmatic understanding: America cannot afford to ignore Pakistan if it seeks stability in South Asia, progress in Afghanistan, and constructive engagement with the Muslim world.
The Indian Factor
Another dimension that cannot be overlooked is the Indian factor. Several U.S. administrations believed that India could serve as a linchpin in their strategy to counter China’s rise. Yet, recent events have challenged this assumption.
The brief but intense escalation between India and Pakistan in May 2025 was revealing. Despite its larger military and economic size, India struggled to counter Pakistan effectively. This raised serious doubts about India’s ability to confront China, a far more formidable power. If New Delhi cannot handle Islamabad, how can it serve as a reliable partner against Beijing?
Moreover, political realities also matter. Prime Minister Narendra Modi openly aligned himself with former President Joe Biden during the 2024 elections, even making anti-Trump remarks. Such positions have not gone unnoticed in Washington. President Trump, known for his sharp memory and direct style, is unlikely to overlook such political behavior easily. This adds another layer of strain to the India–U.S. partnership and strengthens the case for reviving ties with Pakistan.
Pakistan–America Ties Do Not Threaten Anyone
It is important to clarify that a renewed Pakistan–America friendship should not be a source of concern for any third country. Our bilateral relations are focused on mutual interests, peace, and prosperity, not confrontation. India need not feel threatened. The partnership between Islamabad and Washington is not designed to harm others but to promote regional stability and global security.
Equally important is the reassurance that strengthening relations with America will not come at the expense of Pakistan’s ties with China. Historically, Pakistan has maintained strong relations with both Washington and Beijing. It was Pakistan that helped facilitate the landmark U.S.–China rapprochement in 1972, proving that Islamabad can play a bridge-building role. Today, Pakistan remains a committed partner of China through projects like the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), while also seeking to restore its traditional friendship with the United States. Balance and complementarity are possible—and desirable.
A Relationship Built on Mutual Interests
The future of Pakistan–America relations must be based on mutual respect and shared objectives. Both nations stand to gain by working together in several areas:
Peace and Stability in South Asia
Pakistan is uniquely positioned to contribute to stability in Afghanistan and the wider region. Cooperation with the U.S. in peace-building, counterterrorism, and humanitarian assistance will serve common interests.
Economic Prosperity
Economic engagement can form the backbone of this revived friendship. Greater trade, investment, and technology transfer can benefit both economies. Pakistan, with its young workforce and strategic location, can offer American companies significant opportunities in energy, IT, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Counterterrorism and Security
Pakistan has consistently fought terrorism at great human and financial cost. Closer intelligence sharing, training programs, and joint initiatives can help ensure regional and global security.
People-to-People Ties
The Pakistani diaspora in the United States plays a vital role in building cultural bridges. Educational exchanges, scholarships, and collaborative research can deepen mutual understanding.
Global Challenges
Climate change, food security, and energy transitions are global issues that demand cooperation. Pakistan, highly vulnerable to climate-induced disasters, can work with the U.S. to develop sustainable solutions.
Learning from the Past, Looking to the Future
For Pakistan, the lesson of history is clear: reliance on any single partner is risky. Diversified and balanced relationships serve our national interest best. By restoring ties with the U.S. while maintaining strong cooperation with China, Pakistan can ensure greater resilience and autonomy.
For America, the lesson is equally clear: sidelining Pakistan has historically produced setbacks, while engaging Pakistan has often brought progress. Whether in the Cold War, the fight against the Soviets in Afghanistan, or counterterrorism efforts after 9/11, Pakistan’s cooperation has been central to American success.
A Spirit of Optimism
The recent meeting between Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, General Asim Munir, and President Donald Trump should be seen as a new beginning. It reflects a spirit of optimism on both sides and a recognition that past misunderstandings can be overcome through dialogue and cooperation.
For Pakistan, this is an opportunity to present itself as a proactive, peace-loving nation committed to regional stability and global harmony. For the United States, it is a chance to rebuild trust with an old ally and to correct the missteps of past policies that overestimated India’s capacity and underestimated Pakistan’s value.
A Partnership for Peace and Prosperity
The road ahead will require patience, consistency, and sincerity from both sides. But the foundations of Pakistan–America friendship are strong enough to support a revival. This partnership is not about the past alone; it is about building a future grounded in mutual respect, economic cooperation, and shared responsibility for global peace.
Pakistan and the United States have walked together before, through difficult times and historic moments. They can walk together again. By seizing the momentum of this high-level meeting, both nations can restore their traditional friendship, advance their mutual interests, and send a powerful message to the world: that cooperation, not confrontation, remains the most effective path to peace and prosperity.
