The Trump effect

Following his victory in the US presidential elections, all eyes are on President-elect Trump. This includes Pakistanis too, who are waiting to see what his policy towards Pakistan will look like. US-Pakistan ties appear to have waned after the former’s withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 and the US’ desire to contain China has also brought it closer to India.

US-Pakistan relations will likely remain largely unchanged, although Trump’s nationalistic and protectionist streak could mean that it becomes even harder to access funds from West-aligned global lending bodies like the IMF. In the longer term, if one is being optimistic, there could be US collaboration with Pakistan on issues such as terrorism and climate-related issues. We will have to wait and see.

Engr Waqar Badar Kandhro

Larkana