Pakistan has regained diplomatic momentum in Washington as the U.S. recalibrates its South Asia strategy. In high-level meetings, Islamabad emphasized counterterrorism, stability, and economic cooperation, garnering a warmer reception. The shift signals a possible rebalancing of U.S.-India-Pakistan ties, raising questions on whether Pakistan’s leadership can sustain this renewed global engagement.
WEBDESK: August 12, 2025
The same Washington that not long ago seemed comfortable echoing New Delhi’s narrative is now rolling out the welcome mat for Islamabad. And this shift, analysts say, is no accident.
According to a recent Financial Times report, Pakistan’s latest diplomatic push in Washington was strategic, calculated, and focused on mutual interests rather than photo-ops. In closed-door meetings, Pakistani officials presented a three-pronged pitch: assurances on counterterrorism, commitments to regional stability, and a roadmap for lucrative economic cooperation — from energy corridors to mineral wealth.
The reception in Washington was warmer than in recent years, with policymakers and corporate leaders showing interest in Pakistan’s proposals. “This was not about desperation; it was about leverage,” a former Pakistani diplomat told the Media.
The approach contrasts sharply with the often tense dynamic between the United States and Pakistan in the post-9/11 era. It also comes as Washington’s trade policies toward India show signs of strain, including new tariffs on certain Indian goods.
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For New Delhi, the optics are uncomfortable. The shift suggests the U.S. is open to balancing its South Asia engagements when presented with clear, interest-based arguments. “Somewhere in South Block, this new tone from Washington will not go unnoticed,” said a South Asia policy analyst in London.
Still, the absence of Pakistan’s political leadership from this diplomatic drive has raised questions. The recent progress has been largely steered by the country’s security establishment, leaving observers to wonder whether Islamabad’s civilian leaders can sustain — and benefit from — this momentum.
The deeper question remains: is this a one-time diplomatic success, or the beginning of Pakistan reclaiming its place on the global stage through strategic engagement?
Prominent political analyst Muneeb Farooq weighed in:
“Shehbaz Sharif believes there’s no point in meeting after a fight. He has no insecurity over the Field Marshal’s meeting with the U.S. President, as his own front position and leadership remain intact. Shehbaz Sharif celebrates such moments. That’s why the establishment values him greatly. Such governments are not a burden on the establishment but rather a weapon for them. The government is there for important decisions, but the driving force remains the establishment.”
The deeper question now is whether this is a one-time diplomatic win or the start of Pakistan reclaiming a strong role on the global stage through strategic engagement.
For the moment, one thing is certain — the game in South Asia is shifting, and Pakistan has placed itself firmly back on the board.
Courtesy: The Financial Times
