Pakistan Under US Pressure: Boost Strategic and Economic Ties
Pakistan is facing growing diplomatic and strategic pressure from the United States in October 2025 as both countries move to redefine their relationship amid rapidly evolving South Asian geopolitics. The Trump administration’s latest moves reveal a dual push for closer military access and regional influence, which is impacting Pakistan’s foreign policy choices and economic priorities.
Recent developments show Islamabad offering the US a $1.2 billion investment opportunity to build and run a major terminal at Pasni port on the Arabian Sea, near the India-backed Chabahar port in Iran. This proposal is part of Pakistan’s attempt to “reset” relations with the US and attract vital American investment in the port sector and strategic minerals, while creating a new gateway for US critical mineral supply chains and defense operations.
The US is deepening these ties mainly for strategic military access, positioning American assets closer to rivals like China and Iran. Military and intelligence collaboration between the two countries has increased, with US officials and Pakistan’s army chief meeting to discuss counter-terrorism, logistics, and key infrastructure. Experts say that Washington’s engagement is tactical, aiming to maintain leverage against China and remind allies like India that America’s options remain open in South Asia.
On the flip side, this pressure comes at a time when Pakistan faces internal and external challenges—including economic uncertainty, security threats from Afghanistan, and the ongoing rivalry with India. Global analysts highlight how Pakistan’s “balancing act” between the US and China could impact its diplomatic standing and regional trade.
