Trump, Pakistan and the US Aid. What’s Next?

On a Sunday morning, my notifications went somewhat like this:

  • US Scrapped $300 million worth of Aid.
  • “WHAT!”
  • Reddit Jihadists, come aboard! Trolls are at it!
  • Beep beep — Twitter notifications
  • WhatsApp groups are going crazy!
  • Two Quora Ask-to-Answer (A2A) about What’s my opinion and what’ll happen next regarding Pakistan & US relations?

Now, as to those who do not know yet, President Trump yet again decides to block economic assistance to Pakistan. It all started on the 1st of January when American President tweeted some harsh words, and his direction on how he plan’s to take his Foreign Policy towards Pakistan. There was suspension of Aid to Pakistan starting from 1st of January.

(Headline.)

On 2nd September, 2018 — the remaining whatever the Aid Pakistan was receiving has been cut off leaving Now to almost Zero US Aid to Pakistan.

This all comes as both Pakistan and United States disagree on many of the issues regarding their Operations in Afghanistan. Pakistan has been namely accused of harboring and supporting terrorists in Afghanistan, which Pakistan denies, of course.

The United States believes otherwise.

What can be done about Pakistan? Let’s cut their Aid. — United States


The bigger Question is why Now and What’s Next?

Its important to note, American Secretary of State is to visit Pakistan on 5th of September, to meet with the new Government in Pakistan.

  • My first response:

The Aid suspension, unlike for many, I strongly view it as a leverage the United States wants to bring Pakistan to its “channel”. There’s simply nothing more to it, as many are opposed to view it. US and Pakistan relations are declining, and there’s no denying in that, however historically we have always seen Ups & Downs in the relations, and how messed-up it’s gone, they always get back on track. US in Afghanistan, is a sitting duck without Pakistan’s help.

It’s most probably meant for Pakistan is to get the things done. In order to restore the Aid.

  • My second response:

Pakistan, is a neighbor to Iran, and by not having good relations with India, it needs to invest in a healthy relation with Iran, who has historically stood with Pakistan whenever Pakistan was in trouble.

As newly Government was formed just recently, the first International delegation to visit Pakistan was led by Iranian Foreign Minister. Pakistan struck some really good deals, and now as aware of the United States and Iran relations; that of course did not echo too well in the Pentagon. So comes the suspension of economic assistance.

Iranian formula cannot be ignored. Pakistan is trying to play a double sided game. Which is dangerous.

  • Pakistan’s Official response:

The new Pakistan’s Foreign Minister responded perhaps on his first test — It was in a Very professional and a polite manner.

He stated:

We will discuss whatever the issues are, and see what can be done. Dialogue is the way forwards, and I’m seeing to it Only.

Link: https://twitter.com/PakistanOTI/status/1036285268163223554

Where are we headed?

I pray not for the Worst.

I really hope the best for What’s to come. Pakistan must not ignore USA; as its a super-power. It needs to understand US’s demands and work like-wise.

Its the best in the interest of Pakistan’s economy which is seriously in trouble.

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