Washington Acknowledges Islamabad’s Contribution to Regional Peace Efforts
United States Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Saturday described relations between Washington and Islamabad as a developing “true friendship,” while praising Pakistan’s role in facilitating ongoing diplomatic engagement between the United States and Iran.
Speaking during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Hegseth highlighted Pakistan’s contribution to peace efforts and acknowledged the involvement of the country’s leadership in regional diplomacy.
Furthermore, he commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir for their participation in negotiations that have helped support dialogue between Washington and Tehran.
According to Hegseth, the evolving relationship between the United States and Pakistan represents a positive and unexpected development that could contribute to broader regional stability.
Meanwhile, he emphasized the importance of maintaining constructive engagement with key partners across Asia.
His remarks came during a discussion on regional security and missile capabilities involving South Asia’s nuclear-armed states.
US Seeks Balanced Relations Across South Asia
Addressing questions regarding missile development programs in the region, Hegseth noted that both Pakistan and India face security concerns and may perceive threats differently.
However, he stressed that Washington is not currently identifying either country as a direct threat to the United States.
Additionally, the defense secretary said the US appreciates contributions made by both nations toward maintaining international peace and stability within their respective spheres.
The comments reflected the Biden administration’s successor government’s continuing effort to maintain strategic relations with both Islamabad and New Delhi.
Meanwhile, Hegseth reiterated Washington’s position that President Donald Trump played a role in encouraging de-escalation during tensions between Pakistan and India in 2025.
Trump has repeatedly praised Pakistan’s leadership in recent months, describing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir in positive terms during several public appearances.
Furthermore, senior US officials, including Marco Rubio, have previously indicated that Washington sees opportunities to expand cooperation with Pakistan while maintaining strong ties with India.
Analysts view these developments as part of a broader effort to strengthen diplomatic partnerships across South Asia amid evolving regional dynamics.
