THE trajectory of Pakistan-US relations has once again been defined by strategic pragmatism rather than a durable partnership. Recent statements from Washington reaffirm that bilateral engagement continues to revolve around two principal pillars: access to critical mineral resources and counterterrorism cooperation.

While the evolving US strategic posture in South Asia is largely shaped by its competition with China and alignment with India, Pakistan remains embedded within this framework due to its geostrategic relevance, serving as a check on India.

Addressing the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Subcommittee on South and Central Asia recently, Assistant Secretary of State Paul Kapur underscored these priorities. He noted that Washington is working with Pakistan to harness the potential of its critical mineral reserves, combining US government seed financing with private sector expertise to generate mutual economic benefits. At the same time, he emphasised that continued counterterrorism cooperation serves a dual purpose, strengthening Pakistan’s capacity to manage internal security challenges while addressing transnational threats that could affect the US and its partners.

Perhaps the Middle East does not fall within Kapur’s portfolio, and that is why he did not comment on Pakistan’s relevance in this context, especially in light of the growing crisis with Iran and the Gaza peace plan, ie, the Board of Peace, whose meeting is scheduled this month, and which Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to attend. At the meeting, he would announce Pakistan’s commitment to the Gaza peace plan, particularly its contribution to a Gaza stabilisation force.

Pakistan is currently relevant across........

© Dawn