Pakistan’s balanced foreign policy and effective diplomacy have earned global recognition, with the U.S.-based magazine Foreign Policy hailing Islamabad as a “regional diplomatic victor.” The publication highlighted Pakistan’s successful blend of governmental diplomacy and military diplomacy, which has reshaped the international landscape and opened new horizons for the country.
Over the past six months, Pakistan has achieved significant milestones in its foreign relations. The restoration of ties with the United States, strategic agreements with Turkey, Malaysia, and Iran, and strengthened relations with China have marked a new chapter in the nation’s diplomatic journey, according to Foreign Policy.
The magazine also noted that Pakistan’s strategic defense agreement with Saudi Arabia has created a wave of regional diplomatic momentum, underscoring Islamabad’s achievements. Recent developments in U.S.-Pakistan relations emerged from unexpected events, including the capture of the ISIS-K operative behind the Kabul airport attack, which was widely praised as “extraordinary and effective” by U.S. Central Command chief General Michael Kurilla.
Foreign Policy further highlighted that the improved U.S.-Pakistan ties have caused strains in Washington-New Delhi relations, with concerns in India over 25 years of diplomatic efforts potentially being undermined. Tensions between former U.S. President Trump and Indian Prime Minister Modi, including a contentious phone call, provided Pakistan with new diplomatic openings, including Trump’s proposed mediation on Kashmir.
In June, a two-hour meeting between Field Marshal Asim Munir and President Trump marked a warming of bilateral relations, followed by successful engagements involving Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, including the Gaza Peace Conference. These initiatives highlighted Pakistan’s growing global influence and strategic relevance.
Pakistan’s diplomatic successes have also produced tangible economic benefits. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s proactive diplomacy resulted in a $500 million investment commitment from a U.S. company, further demonstrating the impact of Islamabad’s foreign policy.
The magazine emphasized that Pakistan’s ability to simultaneously strengthen relations with the U.S., China, and Saudi Arabia, despite not being a NATO ally, underscores its strategic importance. Foreign Policy concluded that Pakistan’s balanced and effective diplomacy has established the country as a key player on the global stage.
