## US interests in the Indo-Pacific region and ties with India and their impacts on Paki–US relations

05-07-2025
[[Pakistan Affairs]] [[international relations]] 

During the first 50 years of independence, India had uneasy ties with the US, particularly because of its alliance with the Soviet Union. But since the dawn of the 21st century, India and the US relationship has evolved into a strategic partnership and military cooperation. This is particularly due to the rise of China as an economic and military power in South Asia and America's interest in elevating India as an ally and deterrent against China. This has led to Pakistan's role being diminished in US policies, forcing Pakistan to reconsider its foreign policy in this changing landscape.

## US India Ties
### Military Cooperation
- India was designated a Major Defense Partner by the US in 2016
- India and US now conduct joint military exercises
### Strategic Partnership
- US aligns with India on issues like China's regional influence and border security
- Post-2019, the US's commentary on the Kashmir Issue has become less critical

## Impacts on Pakistan–US Relations 
The US tilt toward India acts as a deep security concern for Pakistan as it encourages India to act as a regional hegemon in South Asia. The US now views Pakistan only through the lens of Pak-China ties and thus has reduced contact with it.
- Pak-US military exchange has reduced siginificantly
- Post-Afghanistan, Pakistan's strategic role for the US has declined
- Pakistan has less influence in South Asia now
- The China–Pakistan alliance is perceived as undermining Indo-Pacific cohesion

## Related Ideas 
[[Challenges and Opportunities in redefining Pak-US relations in a post-911 and post-Afghanistan context]]
[[The ups and downs in Pakistan-US relations since the Cold War]]

## References
[Indo-US ties](https://www.dawn.com/news/1854588/indo-us-ties)