Pakistan Refuses To Choose Sides In US-China Global Contest: Politico

Amidst escalating Taliban attacks and a spiraling economic crisis, Pakistan finds itself in the crossfire of the growing global rivalry between the US and China. However, Hina Rabbani Khar, Pakistan's Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, asserts that the country has no intention of choosing sides, Politico reports.

The Global Power Struggle: As a nuclear-armed nation with a population of 250 million, Pakistan is a key player in the strategic influence battle in the Asia-Pacific region. While the US is shifting its focus towards India, China is extending its influence in Pakistan, particularly through large-scale infrastructure projects.

Walking the Tightrope: Despite the challenges, Khar maintains that Pakistan values its relationships with both the US and China. The US remains a significant military partner, with a potential sale of $450 million worth of equipment to maintain Pakistan’s F-16 fighter jets. Meanwhile, China is deepening its military cooperation with Pakistan and investing heavily in infrastructure projects.

Concerns Over Global Leadership: Khar expressed concerns over the US’s defensive stance on its global leadership role, arguing that it remains vital in areas such as healthcare, technology, trade, and combating climate change. She also highlighted China’s economic model as a significant selling point for Pakistan.

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