Washington / Islamabad, Oct 30 (Asia Times) — After years of strained relations, Pakistan appears to be moving back into Washington’s strategic orbit, signaling a renewed alignment with the United States on regional and security matters.
Analysts suggest this shift reflects Islamabad’s attempt to restore trust with the U.S., which has long been a key source of military aid, economic assistance, and diplomatic influence. Pakistan’s leadership reportedly sees the relationship as vital amid rising tensions with Afghanistan, domestic instability, and the growing influence of China in its economy and defense sector.
The report notes that Washington, too, seems interested in re-engaging Pakistan as part of a broader South Asian strategy — especially to counter regional extremism and maintain a foothold near China and the Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.
However, critics within Pakistan warn that returning to this “subordinate” role could limit Islamabad’s independence in foreign policy, as it risks being caught between U.S. and Chinese interests.
Overall, the development marks a complex but pragmatic recalibration of Pakistan–U.S. ties — a move driven by mutual needs rather than ideology.