Asif cautious on US-India partnership

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that Pakistan did not have any issues with the partnership between the US and India ‘as long as it does not come at the expense of Pakistan’.

In an interview with Newsweek, the minister emphasised the importance of maintaining positive relationships with neighbouring countries and regional partners, including India, particularly in the context of the Kashmir issue.

According to Asif, Pakistan is eager to establish good relations with its neighbours and regional allies. With common borders shared with China, Afghanistan, Iran, and India, Pakistan recognises the need to improve these relationships, provided they are not compromised.

He emphasised the significance of peace in the region, as it is crucial for restoring Pakistan's economy to its full potential. Without a peaceful environment, Pakistan's economic growth would be hindered, necessitating efforts to ensure stability and cooperation among neighboring nations, he added.

The defence minister acknowledged that Pakistan possesses a vulnerable economy, primarily relying on its strategic geographical location. While this location attracts various benefits, it also exposes Pakistan to certain vulnerabilities.

Asif called for an understanding from Washington regarding Pakistan's situation, stressing the importance of not pushing Pakistan into making difficult choices that could jeopardise its interests.

Asif further expressed the value Pakistan places on its relationship with the US. Despite past disappointments, he emphasized the need for the bilateral partnership to flourish, he added.

He pointed out the substantial trade between the two countries and the sizable Pakistani diaspora residing in the US, highlighting the economic interests and business opportunities that exist between the two nations.

These comments from the defence minister come at a significant time, as US State Secretary Antony Blinken is scheduled to visit Beijing on June 18 and 19, followed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington. It underscores the importance of US-India relations in the current geopolitical landscape. President Joe Biden's administration has made strengthening ties with India a priority as part of its efforts to counterbalance China's expanding influence. Additionally, the US administration aims to persuade India to procure military drones from the US.