At a time when the country’s economy is recovering from years of regression, two contrasting news reports appeared recently in the media, showing differences of opinion in US diplomacy toward Pakistan. One report is in threatening tone, saying that to break the stalemate in Afghanistan, the United States must break Pakistan’s pathologies. It alleges that out of 20 terrorist organizations, seven of them operate from Pakistan where they have safe havens and are a constant threat to the Afghan peace. On another note, US Ambassador David Hale has expressed his country’s resolve to work for the development of Pakistan as the two countries are closely aligned.The ambassador has also pointed out a very basic ingredient required for the development and that is innovation. According to him, the two countries should work for economic growth, increase bilateral trade, improve investment climate, protect intellectual property and promote entrepreneurship.
The United States and Pakistan have passed through hot and cold relations on various occasions in the past and reason is only one and that is most of the US officials challenge the sovereign status of Pakistan. They are not accustomed to listen to any no from Pakistan and that is the root cause of the problem. It is also a matter of decision for the Pakistani officials to adopt a permanent policy about the US. If there is friendship, it should go through thick and thin with that country and if it wants to keep a neural status, it should keep it up in every situation. Iran is the best example of diplomatic success as it stayed away from any direct conflict with any country involving the United States. The Iranian diplomacy worked well in Afghanistan, Syria and Yemen. Besides, it supported certain groups in Lebanon without inviting direct threat to the country.
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The Pakistan’s economy is growing and it needs peaceful environment not only within the country, but also in the region. The best way to engage US in Pakistan is to create a conducive environment for trade and investment activities. The US companies should be invited to take benefit of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor and set up industries in tax free zones. There is lot of business and trade potential in Pakistan and the country could be converted into an attractive investment destination. This is the only way to keep friendly ties with the United States. Otherwise, hot and cold relations will continue to haunt friendly relations between the two countries.
