Khan’s Message to Trump: Could a Friendship Impact Pakistan’s Politics?
After Donald Trump’s re-election, Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan, currently in jail, extended congratulations to his “very good friend.” In a social media post, Khan expressed hope that Trump would promote peace, democracy, and mutual respect. Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), hopes that Trump’s victory could relieve Khan’s political troubles, though experts are skeptical of U.S. intervention.
Pakistan’s Government Confident of Non-Interference on Khan’s Imprisonment
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry responded to speculation that Trump might intervene in Khan’s case, emphasizing its commitment to “noninterference” from the U.S. The ministry underscored Pakistan’s intention to handle domestic issues independently, regardless of external relations.
Analysts Predict Pakistan Will Be a Low Priority for Trump’s Team:
Joshua White, a former Obama administration official, noted that Trump’s administration may not prioritize Pakistan, viewing the nation through a narrow lens focused on counterterrorism. While some Trump advisors might encourage attention to Khan’s case, White suggests that broader diplomatic pressure on Pakistan’s military over Khan’s imprisonment is unlikely.
Warming Relations with China Could Complicate Ties with Trump’s US:
Pakistan’s ties with China, including the $62 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, may complicate its relations with the U.S. Observers suggest that Trump’s likely tough stance on China could lead to skepticism toward Pakistan, given its economic reliance on Beijing.
Pakistan’s Significance to U.S. Hinges on Middle East Tensions:
Some analysts believe that Pakistan’s importance to U.S. foreign policy could rise if U.S.-Iran tensions escalate. In such a scenario, Pakistan might serve as a regional partner, balancing ties between Iran and U.S. interests.
Trump’s Approach May Strain Pakistan’s Balancing Act Between US and China:
Political analysts argue that Pakistan may face a delicate balance, aiming to preserve relations with both the U.S. and China. Trump’s hawkish views on China could pose challenges for Pakistan as it navigates its longstanding alliance with Beijing alongside a possible cooling of U.S.-Pakistan ties.
Outlook: Limited Change Expected in US-Pakistan Relations Under Trump:
Experts suggest that significant shifts in U.S.-Pakistan relations under Trump are unlikely, as Washington’s attention may focus on China and the Indo-Pacific region. With U.S. interests in Afghanistan and Pakistan’s aid diminished, the relationship could center on economic, climate, and counterterrorism cooperation, as regional analysts predict.