Pakistan- US Relations since 2017: Strategic Shifts in the Transforming World

Abstract

Pakistan-US relations have been cumbersome since the inception of Pakistan. And since 2017, bilateral relations have become more tense and underwent significant shifts, influenced by evolving geopolitical realities, regional security concerns, economic interests, and strategic alliances. This study examines the key developments in Pakistan-US relations post 2017 from divergent perspectives such as Sino-US rivalry and growing Pak-China relations, the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and Taliban 2.0, and more importantly, Indo-U.S. strategic convergence to counter China and the impact on Pakistan. The timeframe from 2017 is chosen because of administrative shift in US after Trump victory as 45th president of the United States and since then Pakistan-US cooperation revolved around the counterterrorism efforts and military collaboration, converted into increasing tensions over issues such as the Taliban’s resurgence, Pakistan’s strategic alignment with China through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and U.S. concerns over democratic governance and human rights. These divergent issues redefined the nature of engagement. Additionally, economic aid, trade policies, and diplomatic engagements continue to influence relations. This research explores the complexities of USA-Pakistan relations in a rapidly changing global order, assessing both challenges and opportunities for future cooperation.

Keywords: Pakistan-U.S. Relations, U.S. Withdrawal from Afghanistan Geopolitical Shifts, Strategic Alliances, Taliban 2.0, Sino-US Rivalry