Once the US was out of Afghanistan, the Pak army realized as to how important it was to have US on its side. It was desperate to retain the old relationship as the two had operated together for many many years, but it was surely not possible till Imran was on chair.
So, the moment Imran Khan was out, the US was back in business.
First to visit Pakistan was Ilhan Omar, a Somali-American who belonged to President Joe Biden's Democratic Party, This was the first US delegation to PoK in three years . She said "Kashmir should get more attention from the United States"
She also further assured after meeting PoK President that “The condemnations and concerns of those who fight for human rights and the question of Kashmir will be included in future hearings within the USA.’’
She Emphasised that the US valued its ties with Pakistan as both countries were partners in progress since last seven decades, and assured the Pakistani top leadership that Washington would continue to support Islamabad in various fields.
Thereafter, when Indian PM was in Tokyo for Quad meet, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Pakistan's Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari at the UN headquarters and discussed strengthening their economic and commercial ties, as well as regional security situation, amid unprecedented deterioration in bilateral ties during the previous Imran Khan regime. The two leaders also discussed Afghan stability, support for Ukraine, and democratic principles.
Thereafter, German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock during her recent visit to Pakistan said that ‘human rights are indivisible’ applies to every region in the world, including Kashmir. Additionally, she urged New Delhi and Islamabad to adopt a “constructive approach” to the conflict and engage diplomatically. She also emphasized that her country supports the United Nations to ensure the grant of all the rights to people of the Valley.
Before that, a large number of Muslim nations summoned the Indian Ambassador and registered a strong protest for the controversial remarks made by BJP Political leaders.
Even EU leaders have sounded their concern quietly on the issue of deteriorating human rights situation in India.
From all this the following emerges ;
One. India is living an interconnected world and the reputation that it gained in last 70 years as a country where everyone is being treated equally without any discrimination is likely to be doubted, if corrective measures are not taken soon.
Two. One cannot run with the hare and hunt with the hounds for very long. The Communal discord at home cannot be hidden anymore and it has spilled over the borders. What is written on social media transcends all borders and hence one cannot hide as to how Hindus and Muslims are abusing eachother in India.
Three. As the trend indicates, It is very likely that Pakistan may be out of the FATF- Financial Action Task Force Grey list soon. That will surely help Pakistan to bring back its economy on corrective mode and it would also invigorate its nuisance value. Needless to emphasise, it would not let go any opportunity to rake up Kashmir issue and human rights violations of Indian Muslims at every International forum. But this time around, India will not be able to justify its actions as forcefully as it could do so earlier because, its secular image has taken a huge blow. To an extent, that it will not be surprising, that India may find it difficult to field a Neutral Muslim face, at the international forums to justify India’s stand, like Vajpayeeji and Nehruji could afford. Even, Sheikh Abdullah and Muftis may not oblige the Current Govt. This will not only embolden the terrorists but also delight some Muslims across the country who have had a rough treatment under the current Govt. This will in turn irritate the Hindutva forces which may further deteriorate the communal situation.
Four. There is no problem with the Jaishankar’s style of conducting foreign policy which he called as an outcome of confidence, that the Nation has found. But in my opinion that kind of foreign policy can only be pursued vigorously when backed by strong principles at home ; Equality, justice and Secularism rather then by a Govt which is seen to be violating the human rights of a community. As, the business interests being interlinked , no one is going to severe relations but there will surely be loss of status.
Five. Pakistan being a nuclear state and an important member of Islamic nations, it still enjoys strategic importance and leverage over Taliban, which is right now ruling over Afghanistan. This may be one of the prime reasons for the renewed interest in Pakistan.
Six. On the other hand, India off late has given confusing signals as regards its foreign policy. A few days after the Quad meet, news broke that India has agreed to work with China on space cooperation. Under this plan, two Indian satellites will be part of a “virtual constellation” that allows data-sharing among the BRICS countries, which also include Brazil, Russia, and South Africa. Also refer to
In view of the above, Pakistan, Once out of the Hook, and communal environment deteriorating in India, it is quite possible that India may find itself in a tight spot by the time Mr Modi goes for 2024 elections.