Donald Trump: Why Does Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Sycophantise America? 5 Major Reasons
Donald Trump - Why Does Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Sycophantise America? 5 Major Reasons
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif finds himself at the receiving end of severe criticism and trolling within his own country after lavishly praising former US President Donald Trump. His advocacy for Trump's Nobel Peace Prize nomination during the Gaza peace summit led to him being dubbed a 'sycophant-in-chief' on social media. The public questions Pakistan's intense need to please the US. Let's explore the five major reasons behind this diplomatic stance.
Pakistan is grappling with a severe economic crisis and perpetually looks to the US for financial aid, while this desperation is evident in Pakistan's offer to develop the Pasni port in Balochistan for the US. Located just 110 km from China's Gwadar port, Pasni is crucial for transporting Pakistani minerals. With the US Strategic Metals company eyeing a $500 million deal with Pakistan's Frontier Works Organization, Pakistan hopes American investment will alleviate its economic woes, particularly in extracting gold from the challenging terrain of Balochistan.
Mending Strained Ties Post-Biden Era
Relations between the US and Pakistan Notably cooled during President Joe Biden's tenure, especially when Imran Khan was in power, while khan even claimed his government was toppled at America's behest. Shehbaz Sharif's administration is now actively working to repair these strained ties, believing strong US relations are vital for Pakistan's stability and international standing.Quest for Weapons and Alliance in Conflict
Pakistan believes that aligning with the US will secure vital military aid and support in times of conflict. Recent events, including Trump's claimed ceasefire after India's 'Operation Sindoor' and subsequent meetings between Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir and Trump, underscore this expectation. The US plan to supply AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles, advanced air-to-air weaponry, reinforces Pakistan's hope for military backing, particularly against potential adversaries like Iran, with whom Pakistan has increasing tensions.Pressure on India and Kashmir Issue
Pakistan uses its US relationship to pressure India on the Kashmir issue, fueled by Trump's past mediation offers. Also, acquiring advanced defense systems like the AIM-120 missiles for its F-16 jets aims to create a strategic deterrent against India, recalling the 2019 Balakot airstrike incident where a similar missile was used.Balancing Act Amidst Growing Chinese Proximity
The current Pakistani government, often termed a 'hybrid government' with Shehbaz Sharif seen as a figurehead, aims to maintain good relations with multiple global powers, including China and Saudi Arabia. Despite its deepening ties with China, evident from recent $8. 5 billion investments, Pakistan is wary of alienating the US. By offering the Pasni port to the US, Pakistan attempts a delicate balance, aiming to benefit from both without alienating either.