How Pakistan Won Over Trump and Shook India’s Diplomacy

Field Marshal Asim Munir, US President Donald Trump, Indian PM Narendra Modi. — ISPR/Reuters/File

Pakistan has managed to pull off an unexpected diplomatic breakthrough with former U.S. President Donald Trump, surprising many analysts and rattling its regional rival, India. What was once a rocky relationship has now taken a sharp turn, with Washington and Islamabad moving closer through military, business, and even cryptocurrency diplomacy.

A Surprising Shift in U.S.-Pakistan Ties

General Asim Munir, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, has been at the center of this shift. This summer, he received two high-profile welcomes in the United States — a private lunch with Donald Trump and a warm reception at a U.S. military retirement ceremony. Both events signaled a revival in relations that had long been written off.

Just a few years ago, Trump had criticized Pakistan for giving the U.S. “nothing but lies and deceit.” But now, under his renewed leadership, Pakistan is finding fresh space in Washington’s strategic thinking.

India Left on the Sidelines

India, once considered Trump’s key partner in the region, has not received the same warmth. Instead, New Delhi has been hit with steep tariffs on its exports and faced criticism from the White House. Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50% while offering Pakistan a lighter 19% duty, highlighting the contrast in treatment.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent tense call with Trump further underscored the strain. While Trump credited himself with helping broker a ceasefire between India and Pakistan during their latest border clash, Modi publicly denied U.S. involvement, insisting it was handled bilaterally.

The Charm Offensive

Pakistan’s approach to Washington has been calculated. Its generals launched a charm campaign, highlighting counterterrorism cooperation, investment opportunities, and strategic diplomacy. Key moves included:

• Delivering a wanted ISIS-K operative to the U.S., earning Trump’s public praise.
• Engaging with Trump-linked business networks, including ventures in energy and minerals.
• Signing a letter of intent with a Trump-backed cryptocurrency company, positioning Pakistan as a future hub for blockchain and tokenized natural resources.

This mix of military collaboration and economic promises has opened doors that seemed firmly closed just months ago.

A Balancing Act with Global Players

Beyond the U.S., Pakistan has worked to balance relations with China, Iran, and Gulf states, offering itself as a mediator where Washington needs back channels. Munir’s visits to Beijing and meetings with Iranian leadership show Pakistan’s strategy of keeping all major powers engaged.

Risks and Rewards

While Pakistan has scored short-term wins, challenges remain. Much of the country’s mineral wealth is untapped and lies in conflict-prone areas. Its economy is fragile, propped up by IMF bailouts and loans from allies. Analysts warn that if promises fall short, Trump’s support could quickly turn into hostility.

Conclusion

For now, Pakistan’s diplomatic gamble has paid off. By leveraging security cooperation, business opportunities, and flattery, Islamabad has repositioned itself in Washington’s good books. But with Trump’s unpredictable style, the future of this relationship remains uncertain — and India is watching closely.

---