Pakistan Strengthens Ties With Trump in His Second Term

Pakistan has become one of the most successful countries in building a stable and positive relationship with US President Donald Trump during his second term. Officials in Islamabad say the progress is the result of steady diplomacy, personal engagement, and strategic cooperation in key sectors.

Strong Personal Chemistry With Trump

US officials note that President Trump has kept unusually warm ties with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir. Both leaders were invited to the White House several times this year. These frequent meetings helped create a direct and comfortable working relationship.

Early Goodwill Through Timely Cooperation

Pakistan earned Trump’s trust early by supporting US concerns at critical moments. One major example was Pakistan’s role in the arrest of a suspect linked to the 2021 Kabul attack. The timely cooperation allowed Islamabad to gain credibility inside the Trump administration.

Lobbying and Strategic Engagement in Washington

Islamabad also strengthened its position by investing in lobbying networks close to President Trump. Pakistan focused on sectors that match Trump’s priorities, including crypto, defense-linked minerals, and high-value strategic markets.

Breakthrough in Critical Minerals

A major diplomatic breakthrough came in the minerals sector. Pakistan’s Frontier Works Organization (FWO) signed a $500 million agreement with US Strategic Metals. This was followed by fresh momentum on the long-stalled Reko Diq project, which Washington views as a key asset in global mineral supply chains.

Crypto Cooperation Expands

Crypto-related engagement also grew quickly. The Pakistan Crypto Council held several meetings with Trump-aligned groups. Pakistan and World Liberty Financial reached early-stage agreements aimed at boosting digital payments and blockchain-based financial services.

Shift in Trump’s Stance Toward India

Diplomatic observers say President Trump’s attitude toward India has cooled. Several issues contributed, including US tariffs, India’s large-scale purchase of Russian oil, and recent tensions between India and Pakistan. Pakistan publicly thanked Trump for helping mediate the May cease-fire, although India denied any foreign role.

No Major Aid Expected Despite Warm Ties

Despite the improved atmosphere, experts do not expect Washington to restart large-scale military or economic assistance. However, the tone of US engagement toward Pakistan has clearly softened under Trump’s second term.

Islamabad Wants a Standalone US Partnership

Pakistan is now working to build a relationship with the United States that is not shaped by China, India, or Afghanistan. Officials say the goal is a direct, balanced partnership based on shared economic and strategic interests.