The Trump Era and Pakistan

The Trump Era and Pakista

TRUMP 

Hillary Clinton once accurately described the relationship between Pakistan and the United States as that of a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law.

Some even liken it to a rollercoaster ride, swiftly moving up and down at times plunging you into the depths and at other times soaring you to the skies.
President Bush and General Musharraf were friends; Reagan had a strong bond with General Zia, and Ayub Khan was also favored by U.S. presidents. However, President Biden maintained a cold attitude toward Pakistan, and Clinton had reservations about undemocratic behavior and extremist activities. Yet, Clinton played a mediating role during the Kargil War between Pakistan and India.


During Yahya Khan's tenure, Henry Kissinger made a secret visit to China via Pakistan. Now, President Trump is set to assume office in a few days. Both the state and people of Pakistan are expressing mixed expectations and concerns.

Some believe that Trump's presidency will cause an upheaval in Pakistan's politics, overthrowing crowns and toppling thrones. However, seasoned diplomats disagree, thinking that Pakistan's political issues are not a priority for Trump. Instead, Trump repeatedly stated during his campaign that the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan was a failed strategy executed with undue haste, adversely affecting both the U.S. and Afghanistan. This could potentially lead him to take a hard stance against the Taliban and Afghan extremists.

It is also possible that Trump might perceive Pakistan as having secretly supported the Taliban. It seems Pakistan has prepared for both scenarios, having assessed all possible outcomes and planned accordingly.

Meanwhile, some supporters of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) are optimistic that once Trump takes office, the gates of Adiala Jail will open, hinting at the release of Imran Khan. On the other hand, the state has already appointed a senior diplomat, Rizwan Sheikh, to manage this challenging situation.

In recent days, the U.S. imposed restrictions on Pakistan's missile program, claiming that these missiles could potentially target the U.S.—a baseless accusation since Pakistan’s missile range is limited to India’s last borders and their sea-based assets. This accusation reflects the U.S.’s unease over Pakistan's growing ties with China. Pakistan is not naïve and understands global strategies. While some call it a "military barracks state," restrictions have also been imposed on Pakistan's government institutions under the guise of its missile program.

It is unlikely that Trump will immediately address the Imran Khan issue, but if he does, trade negotiations may follow. Trump is known for his love of transactional deals.

If Imran Khan is released, what would Pakistan gain in return—$10 billion, free oil, or some other benefits?

When Nawaz Sharif went to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia provided free oil and other perks to Pakistan. What will the U.S. offer now?

Suppose the U.S. twists Pakistan’s arm instead by freezing loans or halting external income. In that case, the current government might use this narrative to bolster its popularity.
A theory has already emerged suggesting that the U.S. and Israel. The Imran Khan's help, aim to seize Pakistan's most significant asset its nuclear program.

Another narrative claims that the Taliban are secretly supported by the U.S., receiving monthly dollar shipments via a special aircraft. It is also suggested that the Taliban's anti-Pakistan activities are driven by the U.S., which seeks to use them to fulfill its agenda against Pakistan.

In the Muslim world, Trump’s closest ally, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has strong ties with Pakistan. It’s likely that Pakistan has shared its political concerns with him, and he might not reject Pakistan’s requests for support. Pakistan is neither Bhutan, Iraq, nor Canada—it employs both the bite of Cuba and the charm of South Korea.

If none of these strategies work, Pakistan could turn to China and Russia as a last resort. Pakistan is the world's fifth-largest country by population, the seventh-most significant in terms of nuclear capability, the only Islamic country with a robust missile program, and ranks as the third or second-largest military power. Among 57 Islamic countries, it stands out as the only one continually striving for democracy, constitutional freedom, and equality.

If all diplomatic and economic avenues fail, Pakistan's ultimate recourse would be to turn to powerful allies like China and Russia. Pakistan has strategic options that can further solidify its geographical, economic, and political significance.

Our Country Pakistan is the fifth most populous country in the world. Million people live there, making it one of the most populated countries on Earth.

Its importance lies not only in its population size but also in its strategic geographical location.

Pakistan is in an important location, connecting Asia, the Middle East, and South Asia. This makes it a key country that major world powers cannot ignore.

It is also the seventh-strongest nuclear power in the world and the only Islamic country that has nuclear weapons, giving it an important role in global politics.


Its nuclear capability not only maintains balance in the region but also grants it a unique status in the Islamic world. Pakistan’s missile program is also regarded as one of the best in the world, critical for its defense and national security. Its advanced missile systems are capable of targeting the furthest Indian borders and maritime zones effectively.

The Pakistani armed forces are among the most organized and experienced militaries in the world, which enhances its global stature. In terms of military strength, Pakistan ranks as the third or second-largest force globally.

In terms of democracy, constitutionalism, and human equality, Pakistan holds a unique position among other Islamic nations. Out of the 57 Islamic countries, Pakistan is the only one where democratic values, constitutional supremacy, and the struggle for equality are consistently upheld. Pakistan’s media enjoys complete freedom, public opinion is valued, and institutional stability reflects its democratic strength.

Strong relations with China and Russia can further enhance Pakistan's importance in global politics. China is already Pakistan's largest trade and economic partner, investing heavily in Pakistan's economy through projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).


Pakistan is no easy prey and does not target others. If matters are handled under the principle of "live and let live," neither Pakistan nor the U.S. will face harm. However, if this doesn't happen, a three-pronged strategy will be used to address Afghanistan. Taliban opponents are eager to side with Pakistan and can be given the green light. Their financial and economic activities can be disrupted at will, and if tensions escalate further, love and war may bring both sides closer than ever.