Washington, February 18: In the past year, while the relationship between the United States and Pakistan may appear to have improved, with increased high-level dialogues, the fundamental dynamics remain largely unchanged. South Asia expert Aparna Pandey emphasized that most of the changes are symbolic, with no significant economic or military benefits accruing to Pakistan on the ground.
This week, Pakistan is set to participate in the inaugural ‘Board of Peace’ meeting in Washington, convened by President Donald Trump. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif will attend, and this visit is being presented as evidence of improving ties between Islamabad and Washington.
However, Aparna Pandey from the renowned Hudson Institute think tank noted that these changes are more symbolic than structural. She stated, “This visit is primarily for attending the Board of Peace meeting. The Pakistani side will likely emphasize the closer personal relationships between the Pakistani Prime Minister, Army Chief, and President Trump, which have evolved over the past year.”
There is also an expectation for Islamabad to highlight trade relations and possibly request bilateral meetings on the sidelines. She remarked, “Whether a bilateral meeting occurs remains to be seen.”
Pandey pointed out, “Symbolically, the relations are going well. However, I do not believe much has changed within Pakistan over the past year and a half.”
Regarding the Gaza issue, she mentioned that Pakistan has long sought a role in matters concerning Muslim countries and communities. If Pakistan participates in the ‘Board of Peace’ or takes on responsibilities in Gaza, it could be viewed positively domestically.
She added that if the Pakistani military is perceived as supporting Israel rather than Palestinian citizens, it would not be well-received. Overall, “It would look good symbolically,” but Islamabad would want clarity on what is expected of its troops as part of any international stabilization force in Gaza.
On domestic political issues, she noted that members of Congress might “ask questions,” but “I do not think the Trump administration will raise concerns… because it is not a priority for them.”
Pandey believes that Pakistan has leveraged its geographical position to prove useful to the U.S. regarding Iran, Gaza, and Palestinian issues. In Pakistan’s view, this should have resulted in tangible benefits in bilateral relations. However, what has materialized so far are only symbolic support and some announcements related to investments. Concrete economic benefits have yet to be realized. She highlighted that there is frustration within Pakistan, with the defense minister recently stating that the U.S. has treated Pakistan like toilet paper.
Regarding military cooperation, she clearly stated that the current U.S. administration will not easily provide Pakistan with advanced military equipment. If Pakistan requires such weapons, it will need to procure them independently. Countries like Saudi Arabia or Turkey may offer financial assistance, but Pakistan’s economic situation does not allow for large-scale purchases of expensive weapons.
On the economic front, she mentioned that U.S. companies could invest in critical minerals. However, many of these minerals are located in Balochistan, which has long faced insurgency issues. Due to the poor security situation, many foreign companies hesitate to invest there.
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