South Asia's Geopolitical Reset

In the history of international politics, 2025 will be remembered as the year of major geopolitical realignment of global powers. In the South Asian region, the relationship between two strategic partners plunged into crisis in less than six months.

Among other reasons, Modi's vehement denial of the US president's mediator role in the Pakistan-India standoff (7-10 May 2025) played a key role. Donald Trump mentioned at least two dozen times and publicly acknowledged his intervention to prevent a nuclear conflict between the two nations, directly challenging India's denials and fabricated claims surrounding the Indo-Pakistani standoffs.

In the same scenario, Pakistan displayed a measured and calculated response, which not only proved the country's invincible defense against any foreign aggression but also earned global appreciation. In the post-Indo-Pak standoff scenario, Pak-US relations have seen an upward trajectory in the fields of economy and defense.

Field Marshal Asim Munir's leadership has marked a significant shift in regional geopolitics, with Pakistan asserting its influence globally. His diplomatic efforts have yielded notable successes, including the strengthening of Pak-US relations. His visit to the US for CENTCOM's change of command ceremony led to the US designating BLA and Majeed Brigade as terrorist outfits—a significant diplomatic victory for the country. Pakistan has outmaneuvered India on the global stage, with both the US and China rebuilding ties with Pakistan, focusing on trade, counter-terrorism, and Middle Eastern policy.

Field Marshal Asim Munir has emphasized Pakistan's commitment to protecting its sovereignty and national interests, warning that any Indian aggression would be met with a befitting response.

Pakistan's diplomatic successes have dented India's image as a global leader, with Field Marshal Asim Munir reaffirming Pakistan's stance on Kashmir as an unfinished international agenda.

On the economic side, the Khyber Pass Economic Corridor (KPEC) is a vital project that connects Pakistan to Afghanistan and Central Asia, offering a secure and scalable overland corridor for trade and commerce. This corridor is crucial for the US to access Central Asia and Afghanistan, bypassing high-risk routes through Iran or unstable northern regions. KPEC is projected to generate over 100,000 jobs, promoting economic growth and stability in the region. The corridor will reduce transit time and costs, enhancing trade between Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Central Asian republics.

Pakistan's geography provides a unique opportunity for the US to access Central Asia and Afghanistan, reducing reliance on geopolitically sensitive routes. KPEC offers opportunities for American logistics and tech firms to invest in customs, warehousing, and digital border systems. The US sees Pakistan as a vital connectivity partner, leveraging its strategic geography to promote regional integration and stability.

Reviving regional energy projects like CASA-1000 and TAPI could reassert the US's presence in Central Asia's energy map. The KPEC project requires significant investment, with the World Bank providing $460 million in funding. The success of KPEC depends on regional cooperation and stability, particularly between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Overall, Field Marshal Asim Munir's leadership has positioned Pakistan as a key player in regional geopolitics, with a special focus on advancing national interests and countering Indian influence.