Islamabad: Dr. Rashid Wali, an expert in international relations, has emphasized the positive outcomes of the recent tariff negotiations between Pakistan and the United States. Pakistan has been advocating for reduced tariffs to boost its exports, and the new trade deal is expected to significantly increase Pakistan's exports to the US. Dr. Wali believes that the cooperation between the two countries can expand into various sectors such as mineral development, trade, IT, investment, hydroelectric projects, and oil and gas exploration. President Donald Trump recently mentioned on Truth Social that the US is considering partnering with Pakistan in oil and gas exploration, searching for a credible international company, which could benefit Pakistan immensely. The involvement of American investments in energy, mineral, and rare earth sectors is expected to reshape Pakistan's economic landscape, which is currently largely dependent on China.
According to Radio Pakistan, the trade deal is a win-win scenario for both nations, as the US possesses expertise in the oil and gas exploration sector. The increased economic stakes could also enhance security in the region, as it might lead to a decrease in tensions with India. With American interests rooted in Pakistan, there might be pressure on India to halt the flow of arms and finances to proxies in Balochistan and Khyber Pukhtunkhwa. The trade deal presents a favorable climate for US investments in Pakistan, provided the bureaucratic and structural barriers are minimized. The untapped market in Pakistan holds substantial resources, making this development particularly promising.
Anwar Iqbal, a journalist, views the trade deal as a significant victory for Pakistan, marking a step towards a peaceful relationship between the two countries. Positive developments have been observed in Pak-US relations since President Trump took office. The oil and gas exploration and tariff components of the deal are seen as major achievements for Pakistan. The current bilateral trade stands at approximately $7 billion, with Pakistani exports to the US at $5 billion and imports at $2 billion, leading to a trade balance in Pakistan's favor. The establishment of US oil and gas infrastructure in Pakistan could potentially multiply this trade figure. Pakistan's strategic location enhances its importance, and there is a desire for Pakistan to be recognized for its own merits rather than its proximity to India or Iran. This perspective appears to be acknowledged by the Trump administration.