Relations between Pakistan and the United States are undergoing a “surprising and constructive turn” in 2025, marked by renewed cooperation on counterterrorism, economic engagement, and strategic diplomacy. This stands in contrast to the strained and low-level ties of previous years. However, along with these positive developments, several challenges remain, particularly under the presidency of Donald Trump.
A New Chapter in Relations
- Counterterrorism Cooperation: The two nations have revitalized their counterterrorism partnership. A US-Pakistan Counterterrorism Dialogue in August 2025 reaffirmed their commitment to working together to combat all forms of terrorism.
- Economic and Trade Ties: A new aspect of the relationship is the growing US interest in Pakistan’s minerals and energy sectors. A US firm signed a $500 million investment deal to collaborate on mining and processing critical minerals, which aims to help Pakistan navigate its ongoing financial crisis.
- Military Aid and Cooperation: US aid to Pakistan in fiscal year 2023 included 1.5% for military purposes. President Trump also approved a new $397 million military package to maintain and monitor Pakistan’s F-16 fleet.
Challenges and Concerns
- Sanctions on Missile Program: The US imposed sanctions on four Pakistani entities in December 2024, alleging their involvement in a long-range missile program. Pakistan’s Foreign Office has called these sanctions “unfortunate and biased.”
- Regional Tensions: Experts fear that Trump’s adversarial stance toward China could force Pakistan to walk a diplomatic tightrope between its closest ally and its historical partner, the US.
- Political Uncertainty: The political landscape in both the US and Pakistan remains uncertain. Trump’s return to power in the US and Pakistan’s domestic political instability could further complicate the future of their relationship. Some analysts believe Pakistan’s strategic significance to the US has diminished, making it a low-priority country.
