Why Pakistan's China-First Policy Could Backfire: Ignoring the US a Costly Mistake?

Pakistan's decision to prioritize its relationship with China over the United States may prove to be a costly mistake, warns an op-ed in Al Jazeera. The author argues that Pakistan's reliance on China could ultimately leave it isolated on the global stage, particularly as the US continues to play a significant role in shaping international relations.

While China has invested heavily in Pakistan, providing economic and military support, the author notes that China's rise has come at the expense of democracy and human rights. The author further argues that Pakistan's relationship with the US is critical to its long-term success, particularly as the US remains a key player in global politics and is home to a large Pakistani diaspora.

The author acknowledges that there are challenges to improving the US-Pakistan relationship, including Pakistan's history of supporting extremist groups and the US's complex relationship with India. However, the author concludes that Pakistan must work to mend its relationship with the US and pursue a foreign policy that is not solely reliant on China. Failure to do so could lead to Pakistan's isolation on the global stage and harm its long-term economic and political prospects.