By Junaid Qaiser
The steady stream of diplomatic communications from Washington and Islamabad indicates that the relationship between Pakistan and the United States is no longer just running on autopilot. Instead, it appears to be entering a phase of thoughtful recalibration—one that both nations are increasingly describing as historic in its significance and practical in its aims. If 2025 was about rebuilding trust, 2026 is now being framed as the year when intentions must turn into tangible actions.
Recent statements from Andy Halus, the US Embassy’s Minister-Counsellor for Public Diplomacy in Islamabad, sum up the current atmosphere nicely. He referred to the Pakistan-US relationship as being at its peak, emphasizing the “extremely strong and cordial” connections among President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. Such language isn’t common in diplomatic exchanges. It highlights a rare alignment at both political and civil-military levels, which adds strategic depth to their engagement.
The alignment between the two nations was clearly evident during the White House meeting on September 26, 2025, where President Trump welcomed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir together. This closed-door gathering in the Oval Office was significant not just for its visuals but also for its timing. After months of heightened diplomatic engagement, it underscored the idea that Pakistan is being viewed as a serious partner rather than just a temporary ally.
President Trump’s public commendation of Pakistan’s leadership—referring to both the PM and the COAS as “great leaders”—went beyond mere compliments. It highlighted America’s acknowledgment of Pakistan’s contributions to counterterrorism, regional stability, and crisis management, especially in light of the May 2025 military tensions with India that concluded with a US-mediated ceasefire. In a world filled with uncertainty, Washington appreciates stability, and Islamabad has positioned itself as a key stabilizing force in this delicate region.
Dr. Anila Ali, the President and CEO of the American Muslims and the Multifaith Women Empowerment Council (AMMWEC), refers to this period as “a strategic reset in Washington,” but she also offers a crucial reminder about what will ultimately influence Pakistan’s path.
“The future of Pakistan won’t be dictated solely by diplomatic discussions; it will hinge on the environment it cultivates for investment and growth,” she asserts. “Genuine progress is contingent upon Pakistan creating a truly supportive climate for business—one that is rooted in the rule of law, provides security for religious minorities, ensures the economic inclusion of women, and adopts a zero-tolerance stance on terrorism. Streamlining processes, ensuring transparency, and developing credible economic zones for American and European investors are not optional; they are essential for building trust. Without these core elements, no outreach effort can lead to sustainable economic growth.”
In Washington, Pakistani officials, led by Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, are increasingly looking at their relationship with the U.S. through a geoeconomic lens. Their talks with Congress and the U.S. administration have been all about launching high-level economic dialogues and establishing cooperation in key areas like energy, defense, minerals, information technology, and artificial intelligence.
Pakistan’s strategy is straightforward—it’s all about showcasing a low-cost, high-quality manufacturing base, competitive surgical instruments, strong textiles and sports goods sectors, and a rapidly growing IT workforce. The early signs are encouraging. Bilateral trade in goods has increased by more than 16 percent, services trade has surged, exports to the U.S. are climbing, and remittances are on the rise.
Security cooperation remains the backbone of the relationship. Pakistan’s concerns about terrorism emanating from Afghanistan, the misuse of advanced weapons left behind after the US withdrawal, and the broader implications for regional and international peace align closely with American priorities. This convergence provides a stable foundation for broader cooperation, even as both sides acknowledge the need to expand beyond a purely security-centric framework.
US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have been careful to stress that closer engagement with Pakistan does not come at the expense of relations with India. Still, the past year has seen a more balanced American posture in South Asia—one that recognises Pakistan’s perspectives and rewards consistent diplomatic engagement.
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