Recent reports reveal that Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen ties with the United States are mainly driven by economic and security concerns. After feeling let down by China, Islamabad is now looking towards America for support, especially in terms of money and military equipment.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a massive infrastructure project funded by China, has left Pakistan with a hefty debt. According to a Maldives Insight report, Pakistan owes China around $29 billion, and its total external debt has soared to $130 billion. Because of these financial pressures, Pakistan is seeking bailout packages from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which is heavily influenced by the U.S. Washington has approved a $7 billion aid package for Pakistan, with $1 billion already disbursed in 2024.
However, many Pakistanis have not seen the benefits of CPEC. Power tariffs remain high, and Chinese companies charge for power even when plants are not running. Local fishermen in Gwadar Port also face losses due to resource restrictions. Additionally, Baloch insurgents have targeted Chinese workers and Pakistani security forces to protest China’s exploitation of Balochistan’s resources, revealing tensions between local communities and Chinese interests.
Historically, Pakistan’s military support from the U.S. decreased after President Donald Trump suspended aid during his first term, criticizing Pakistan’s lack of action against terror groups like the Taliban and Haqqani Network. Since then, Pakistan has increasingly relied on China for military equipment. However, recent conflicts with India exposed weaknesses in Chinese-made weapon systems such as the HQ-9 and HQ-16 missile systems, as well as J-10C fighters and JF-17 aircraft. These weapons reportedly failed to prevent Indian strikes or inflict significant damage, pushing Pakistan to seek more reliable U.S. weaponry.
Meanwhile, China is closely monitoring Pakistan’s warming relations with the U.S.. After visiting India last month, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi traveled to Islamabad to discuss strengthening China-Pakistan ties. China fears that Pakistan’s growing closeness with America could weaken its own influence.
Beijing is especially wary of U.S. concerns about China’s military presence at Gwadar Port, a key part of the China-Pakistan relationship. Recently, Islamabad did not allow Chinese navy ships to visit Gwadar during a joint naval exercise—likely due to U.S. pressure. China’s ultimate aim with CPEC is to establish a military presence in the Indian Ocean, which has become a point of tension for India and its allies.
In summary, Pakistan’s shifting alliances and economic struggles highlight the complex geopolitics in South Asia. While seeking support from the U.S., Pakistan remains caught between its needs for aid and military security and China’s growing influence in the region.
