Islamabad’s Unexpected Diplomatic Victory
In a remarkable diplomatic turnaround, Pakistan has emerged as a key partner for US President Donald Trump during his second term. Once sidelined by Washington due to political instability and ties with China, Islamabad now enjoys a renewed place at the global table. During a Gaza ceasefire press conference, Trump hailed Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, as his “favorite field marshal,” while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif went as far as nominating Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize — a gesture that underscored this unexpected friendship.
From Isolation to Influence
Just a few years ago, such scenes were unimaginable. Under President Joe Biden, relations with Pakistan had hit historic lows, with Biden labeling the country “one of the most dangerous nations.” But Trump’s return to power reshaped the diplomatic landscape. His administration, known for transactional relationships, has welcomed Pakistan’s overtures — and Islamabad has responded with tact, flattery, and strategic offerings.
Pakistan’s diplomacy has paid off: it’s facing lower US tariffs than India, is receiving a new batch of American Raytheon missiles, and its top officials are regularly invited to Washington.
Field Marshal Asim Munir: The Silent Strategist
At the heart of this new alliance stands Field Marshal Asim Munir, Pakistan’s influential army chief. Known for his discipline and secrecy, Munir played a central role during the brief conflict with India earlier this year. When Trump mediated a ceasefire, Pakistan publicly credited him for the success — a move that won Trump’s admiration and further solidified ties between the two nations.
Rare Earths: The Real Game Changer
Pakistan’s diplomatic leverage lies not only in charm but in minerals. With an estimated $8 trillion worth of untapped rare earths — essential for everything from smartphones to advanced weaponry — Pakistan holds a valuable bargaining chip. In September, a $500 million deal was signed between Missouri-based US Strategic Metals and Pakistan’s Frontier Works Organization, marking the first shipment of enriched rare earth elements to the US.
This move not only strengthens Pakistan’s economy but also positions it as an alternative supplier to China’s near-monopoly on critical minerals.
The Road Ahead
While relations with Trump 2.0 are flourishing, experts warn that the warmth is personality-driven. As former ambassador Husain Haqqani notes, “Trump likes Pakistan because Pakistan likes him.” The partnership, though promising, remains as unpredictable as the man in the White House.
