Strategic Gains for Pakistan in Washington
An international magazine has praised Pakistan’s recent diplomatic performance in Washington. The publication described it as a strategic success during a sensitive regional period. It said Pakistan managed to strengthen ties with the United States amid changing global and South Asian dynamics.
According to the report, Pakistan adopted a calm and calculated diplomatic approach. This approach helped Islamabad gain goodwill in Washington. The magazine noted that Pakistan used regional tensions to reposition itself as a constructive partner. It added that Pakistan’s messaging was consistent and well received by US leadership.
In contrast, the report highlighted growing challenges for India in its relationship with the United States. It said India is now facing 50 percent US tariffs. It also noted that India was excluded from a recent presidential visit. These developments signaled a cooling phase in US-India relations.
The magazine explained that tensions increased after India rejected a US offer to mediate in the Pakistan-India dispute. This decision reportedly displeased Washington. As a result, diplomatic engagement between the US and India slowed significantly.
Mediation Support and High-Level Engagement
The Diplomat reported that Pakistan took a different approach during the same period. Islamabad openly welcomed former president Donald Trump’s offer to mediate. The magazine described this move as strategic and timely. It said Pakistan’s endorsement helped present the country as flexible and cooperative.
Following the Pakistan-India conflict, President Trump invited Pakistan’s army chief to the White House. This invitation was seen as a strong diplomatic signal. The magazine said it reflected renewed trust and engagement between the two countries.
The report also recalled that in September 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited Washington. Field Marshal Asim Munir accompanied him during the visit. Several high-level meetings took place during this time. These meetings focused on rebuilding bilateral cooperation.
Discussions between Trump and Field Marshal Asim Munir went beyond security matters. Trade and investment opportunities were also discussed in detail. The magazine said these talks helped revive stalled areas of cooperation.
Trade, Security, and Regional Balance
According to the report, Pakistan and the United States resumed counterterrorism cooperation. This cooperation had long been a key pillar of bilateral relations. The magazine said its revival marked a significant diplomatic breakthrough.
In July 2025, both countries signed a tariff reduction trade agreement. This deal aimed to boost bilateral trade. Trump later announced plans for joint development of major oil reserves. The magazine said this announcement strengthened economic ties further.
In December 2025, Pakistan received US approval for upgrades to its F-16 fighter jets. The report described this as a major security milestone. It said the approval reflected growing confidence in Pakistan’s defense partnership.
The magazine also noted Pakistan’s balanced regional diplomacy. In January 2026, Islamabad emphasized renewed engagement with China. The report said Pakistan managed to maintain strong ties with both Washington and Beijing.
Meanwhile, the US imposed a 50 percent tariff on India after failing to reach a trade agreement. The Diplomat concluded that Pakistan successfully turned a regional crisis into a diplomatic opportunity.
