WASHINGTON – US President Donald Trump overturned his South Asia policy, ending “India First” policy and elevating Pakistan to position of strategic priority.
Washington Times termed 2025 a revolutionary year for Pakistan–US ties, crediting dramatic shift in Trump’s approach toward South Asian nation. The recent article points to short but intense Pakistan–India clash in May as the turning point.
US analysts were stunned by Pakistan’s military performance, discipline, and strategic focus, prompting a re-evaluation of the region. What was once expected to be a sidelining of Pakistan in favor of India through initiatives like the Quad has now completely reversed.
The leading publication said Pakistan’s rapid image makeover in Washington is “rare and unique.” No longer seen as an undesirable state, Pakistan is now a critical American partner. Trump himself publicly praised Pakistan in March, in what is said to be a dramatic policy shift. Each act of cooperation from Islamabad has been transformed into unexpected diplomatic credit, with ties evolving from transactional to strategic.
Special attention is given to Field Marshal Asim Munir, who emerged as key player in Washington. Dubbed “disciplined dark horse” and a “daily-bred mystery,” Munir become star in Trump’s inner circle. The ties between Donald Trump and Asim Munir has been half-jokingly described as a “bromance.”
Munir’s strategic acumen and leadership were highlighted during the ceasefire, which India’s reaction failed to impress Trump, further cementing Pakistan’s role as a reliable regional actor. For first time ever, Pakistani military chief attended White House luncheon, and Munir received a red-carpet welcome at US Central Command headquarters, engaging in high-level strategic talks with American military leadership.
The newspaper mentioned that CDF Asim Munir was instrumental in rekindling of US policy and the South Asia shift. The new US vision positions Pakistan as key ally in South Asia, giving its military modernization global significance. Structural reforms, including activating the Chief of Defence Forces position, highlight Islamabad’s rising strategic weight.
Trump’s “grand strategy” sees Pakistan at the center of regional calculations, with discreet and credible channels to Iran and potential key roles in Gaza and other hotspots.
Field Marshal Asim Munir likely to hold key meeting with Trump in coming days
