Pakistan first approach unites Pakistan

Last few days have seen an unprecedented scenario in Pakistan, all sectors of society including government and opposition leaders united on one point. Their point of consensus? Donald Trump’s Twitter tirade. When the erratic US President suggested in an interview to Fox news that Pakistan did not do a ‘damn thing’ for US security during its so-called war on terror and then later accused its front-line ally of harboring Osama bin Laden, Prime Minister Imran Khan was quick to give a befitting response to buffoonish accusations and presented Pakistan’s case with logic and fact-based arguments.

His sentiments were echoed by political leaders from all over the spectrum and even the military and religious leadership assured the civilian government of full support in the face of US threats. This was a rare show of unity in a bitterly divided country, one that must be savored till it lasts.

National harmonious sentiments aside, this does pose some difficult choices for foreign policy makers of Pakistan and required through analysis on their part. Pak-US relations have historically been a topsy-turvy ride with occasional highs and excessive lows. However, Donald Trump is a unique case, one that has baffled even the renowned international relations experts. It has now become evident that Mr. Trump has no regard for diplomatic norms and rule-based world order that US itself helped establish after the end of cold war.

It can also be argued that engaging in a Twitter spat with him was not a wise move on PM Khan’s part. It sure won him domestic applause, but foreign policies are not conducted via tweets. Trump is the most unpopular president in US history and is highly unlikely to be reelected that is if he survives the looming impeachment threat in the aftermath of Mueller probe. Pakistan needs to adopt a rational and pragmatic policy towards US and look further than 2020.