India Uneasy Over Strengthening Pakistan–US Ties

India Concerned Over Strengthening Pakistan–US Relations, Reports British Daily

Web Desk – A recent report by the Financial Times has revealed that Pakistan’s improving diplomatic ties with the United States have sparked unease in India. The unexpected shift comes on the back of a series of high-profile engagements between Islamabad and the administration of US President Donald Trump.

According to the publication, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir made two significant visits to the United States this summer. His latest trip took him to Florida to attend the retirement ceremony of US Central Command Chief General Michael Kurilla.

Earlier, in June, Munir held a two-hour meeting and private lunch with President Trump, just a month after the most intense Pakistan–India border clash in decades. The meeting’s significance is amplified by Trump’s past criticism of Pakistan — a stance that now appears to have undergone a dramatic reversal.

A “New Era” in Pakistan–US Engagement

Michael Kugelman, Senior Analyst at the Asia Pacific Foundation, described the development as “remarkable” and “an unexpected reset — in fact, a new era.” He noted that Pakistan has successfully adapted its diplomatic approach to engage with the unconventional US president.

The report outlines Pakistan’s multi-pronged strategy for improving ties, which includes:

• Enhanced cooperation on counterterrorism initiatives.

• Building connections with influential figures in Trump’s business network.

• Signing agreements in energy, mineral resources, and cryptocurrency sectors.

• Delivering positive diplomatic signals directly to the White House.

Major Security and Economic Deals

One of the most notable developments occurred in March, when Pakistan captured and handed over to US authorities a key ISIS-Khorasan militant, believed to be the mastermind behind the 2021 Kabul airport bombing. President Trump publicly commended the operation during his “State of the Union” address, calling it a “major success” for Pakistan.

In April, Pakistan’s Crypto Council finalized an agreement with Trump-backed blockchain venture World Liberty Financial. During a visit to Pakistan, one of the project’s founders praised the nation’s rich mineral reserves.

India’s Growing Frustration

The Financial Times report highlights India’s mounting frustration over these developments, particularly after Washington raised import tariffs on Indian goods to 50%, while keeping Pakistan’s tariff rate at 19%.

Adding to the tension, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi disputed Trump’s claim that the US mediated a ceasefire between Pakistan and India in May. Modi insisted the truce was the result of direct military negotiations between the two sides.