Deep Dive

Trump’s Pivot to Pakistan

The South Asian nation has deployed a combination of flattery and strategy to get Washington on its side. December 8, 2025, 5:00 AM

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and U.S. President Donald Trump shake hands during a world leaders’ summit in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt.

Even in an administration that has been full of surprises, Donald Trump’s pivot to Pakistan has stood out.

The U.S. president has developed a close relationship with senior Pakistani leadership, including the country’s powerful military chief, Asim Munir—whom he hosted at the White House in June and again in September —and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, whom he has met three times this year.

Even in an administration that has been full of surprises, Donald Trump’s pivot to P

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