By: Saeed ur Rahman Siddiqui
U.S President Joe Biden has recently written a letter to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, extending his warm wishes to the newly elected government. In this significant correspondence, President Biden emphasized the critical nature of the partnership between Pakistan and the United States in ensuring global security and safeguarding our people.
In this letter, President Biden reaffirmed the shared vision between our nations, particularly in areas such as public health protection, economic development, and education for all. Both countries are committed to advancing these common goals together.
Furthermore, the letter underscored the United States’ unwavering support for Pakistan’s recovery efforts following the devastating 2022 floods. President Biden expressed a strong commitment to working collaboratively with Pakistan to protect human rights and foster the nation’s development.
Despite occasional challenges, the historical relationship between the United States and Pakistan remains significant. During the Cold War, Pakistan stood as a close ally of the US. Notably, Pakistan played a pivotal role in establishing diplomatic ties between China and America.
Additionally, when the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan, it was the joint efforts of the United States and Pakistan that effectively blocked the Soviet advance in Afghanistan.
while there have been fluctuations in the relationship, the overall history between the two nations shines brightly, reflecting moments of cooperation and shared interests. Following the Soviet Union’s withdrawal from Afghanistan, the once-warm relationship between Pakistan and the United States turned frosty. This chill persisted until the establishment of the Musharraf government in 1999. However, pivotal events would soon reshape the dynamics between the two nations. In the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks, America found itself embroiled in the war in Afghanistan once again. Pakistan emerged as a crucial ally, providing unwavering support in various capacities. Yet, this commitment came at a steep cost: Pakistan not only lost billions of dollars but also witnessed the sacrifice of thousands of lives. Remarkably, even during this turbulent period, the United States extended substantial financial aid to Pakistan.
During General Musharraf’s tenure, the United States provided approximately $19 billion in various forms of assistance. Moreover, under the Kerry-Lugar Bill, an additional $7 billion flowed into Pakistan between 2010 and 2015. These funds fueled critical developmental projects across the nation, bolstered by American backing.
However, the Biden administration initially maintained a bureaucratic distance in Pakistan-US relations. After assuming office, President Biden refrained from directly contacting former Prime Minister Imran Khan, his successor Shahbaz Sharif, or even the caretaker government. This silence raised eyebrows, leaving Pakistan pondering the future trajectory of the bilateral relationship.
Recently, President Biden broke this silence by writing a letter to Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif. In this correspondence, he emphasized the enduring importance of the partnership between the United States and Pakistan. President Biden assured Pakistan of continued support in its recovery from the devastating 2022 floods and pledged to collaborate on human rights protection and national development.
While the initial coolness of the Biden administration raised concerns, it now appears that the impression of diminishing ties has shifted. As the United States withdrew from Afghanistan, Pakistan ceased to be a close ally. However, given Pakistan’s strategic significance and nuclear capabilities, the US cannot afford to ignore it. Behind the scenes, the US has always monitored Pakistan’s relations with China and Russia, although these concerns have not been openly expressed.
Interestingly, the United States has been vocal about its trade relationship with Iran, which happens to be Pakistan’s second-largest trade partner.
In nutshell, while the relationship between the United States and Pakistan has experienced fluctuations, it remains a complex tapestry woven with threads of cooperation, strategic interests, and historical ties.
The United States continues to wield significant influence in South Asia, playing a pivotal role in maintaining regional stability. Its multifaceted engagement spans several critical areas, including peace-building efforts in India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. As a major player, the U.S. actively contributes to peace and stability in both India and Pakistan. These neighboring countries have a history of tensions, and the U.S. endeavors to foster dialogue, mitigate conflicts, and promote cooperation.
By engaging diplomatically and supporting confidence-building measures, the U.S. aims to prevent escalations and encourage peaceful resolutions to disputes.
Afghanistan remains a focal point for U.S. efforts. The withdrawal of American troops has prompted intense scrutiny of the region’s security landscape. The U.S. is committed to ensuring that Afghanistan does not revert to being a safe haven for international terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State (ISIS). This commitment extends beyond military presence to diplomatic and economic support. Amidst regional complexities, the U.S. closely monitors the evolving trade relations between Pakistan and Iran.
Both the United States and Pakistan share a common interest in curbing gang-related activities. However, their interactions extend far beyond this shared concern.
The United States remains deeply concerned about the relentless attacks orchestrated by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) on Pakistani soil, as well as the TTP’s ambush sites within Afghanistan. Both countries engage in ongoing counter-terrorism cooperation, addressing this menace together.
While the U.S. does not openly discuss severing Pakistan-China relations, it harbors concerns about defense cooperation between Pakistan and China in the region. It is essential for the U.S. to recognize that without its aid, Pakistan may increasingly align itself with China.
Moreover, the simmering tensions between India and Pakistan also weigh heavily on American minds. To prevent potential crises from escalating into full-blown conflicts, the U.S. must continue its role as a mediator in border and military incidents. Pakistan’s strategic location cannot be ignored. Despite its diminished superpower status globally, the U.S. recognizes the significance of maintaining ties with Pakistan. Consequently, the U.S. continues to provide significant financial and security assistance to Pakistan.
The strategic partnership between the United States and Pakistan is poised to continue in a pragmatic manner. Over the past two decades, the U.S. has directly provided over thirty-two billion dollars in aid to the people of Pakistan. However, this investment began even earlier.
In the 1960s, the United States played a pivotal role in supporting the “Green Revolution” in Pakistan. This transformative initiative led to the development of high-yielding varieties of staple crops such as wheat and rice. The economic landscape in rural Pakistan was significantly altered, creating new opportunities for its inhabitants.
More than half a century ago, the U.S. invested in Pakistan’s electricity supply infrastructure. Reservoirs and hydroelectric plants were constructed, providing reliable, efficient, and clean energy. These facilities have substantially increased Pakistan’s power generation capacity and continue to supply electricity to over fifty million people.
Beyond energy, these reservoirs also play a crucial role in preventing water shortages, mitigating flood impacts, and enhancing agricultural production. Notably, the Mangla and Tarbela dams alone can store approximately ten percent of Pakistan’s water flow. The Gomal Zam Dam has been a game-changer for agriculture. By doubling agricultural production in the immediate area, it has provided sustenance and economic opportunities to thousands of people.
Beyond physical infrastructure, our bilateral relationship thrives on mutual understanding. Higher education exchange programs, such as the Fulbright program, have been instrumental. Remarkably, the U.S. invests more in the Fulbright program in Pakistan than in any other country The 37,000 active members of the alumni association from U.S. exchange programs form the largest chain of its kind globally.
In fact enduring ties between the United States and Pakistan extend beyond financial aid and infrastructure. They are woven through education, shared experiences, and a commitment to progress
The relationship between the United States and Pakistan transcends mere diplomacy—it is a multifaceted partnership that spans trade, investment, healthcare, and people-to-people connections.
The United States stands as Pakistan’s largest single export market, underscoring its pivotal role in Pakistan’s economic landscape. American companies, along with their local affiliates, serve as major employers in Pakistan, providing direct employment to over 120,000 individuals. Beyond these direct jobs, their operations indirectly support millions of livelihoods. With a proven track record in manufacturing and delivering high-quality products and services, American businesses contribute significantly to the Pakistani market. Their offerings span diverse sectors, including energy, agriculture, franchising, retail trade, and the digital domain.
Regarding the health sector collaboration, the U.S. has played a crucial role in bolstering Pakistan’s healthcare infrastructure. When the Covid-19 outbreak struck, Pakistan was better prepared than many other countries due to U.S. support. The United States has generously donated over 780 million dollars’ worth of high-quality American vaccine doses to Pakistan, aiding the vaccination drive. Pakistan-U.S. relations are not one-sided; they thrive on mutual benefits. American companies forge partnerships with Pakistani counterparts, fostering economic growth and technological exchange. Meanwhile, a vibrant and highly successful Pakistani-American community, numbering over 5.5 million, acts as a bridge between the two nations. These individuals, whether doctors, technicians, engineers, or artists, play pivotal roles in American society.
Read More: Biden Wins North Dakota Democratic Primary
The collaboration extends beyond commerce. Together, we engage in international endeavors across diverse fields including joint research and scientific cooperation, addressing global environmental challenges, and navigating complex geopolitical landscapes.
On October 8, 2005, the United States emerged as Azad Kashmir’s biggest supporter. In the aftermath of a devastating earthquake, U.S. military Apache helicopters conducted massive rescue operations. Thousands of U.S. army trucks tirelessly cleared debris from collapsed buildings. American diplomats continued to visit Azad Kashmir, actively participating in relief work. Ambassador Donald Bloom, the current U.S. ambassador to Pakistan, made a significant impact by referring Azad Kashmir as “Azad Jammu and Kashmir”, a term deeply appreciated by the local population and legitimizes the claim of Pakistan. This gesture exemplifies the enduring bonds between our nations.
The U.S.-Pakistan relationship thrives on shared interests, resilience, and a commitment to progress. As we navigate global challenges, our collaboration remains steadfast, guided by the spirit of partnership and mutual respect
The enduring friendship between Pakistan and the United States is undeniably in the best interest of both nations. As we navigate shared challenges and opportunities, this bond should not only endure but flourish even more profoundly.
