Sir: With Trump taking oath of office as President, the US foreign policy has transformed apparently 130 degree. It has unwrapped a new era with much bombast, fastening his belt to practically implement “America First” slogan by reshaping US role in national and global affairs and instigating the steps which he focused as modest candidate beyond the future assumption of Trump’s policies. Donald Trump is ambitious to prove his words by taking bold actions. His first 100-day actions will clearly prove where he is to head to.
America is home to thousands of Pakistani-Americans, immigrants and visa holders. It is not clear what fate they will face, as there are reports that next is Pakistan’s turn to be included in the visa, travel ban list. Pakistanis are living in great confusion. His assertion that “I think Islam hates us” clearly indicates that his focus is not so called ‘Islamic’ terrorism, but Muslims and Islam itself. However, coming years will determine as to what turns next. His policy will isolate America and American people, ignite anti-Americanism worldwide.
For us as Muslims in general and Pakistanis in particular, in Trump is an opportunity to get united and rely on ourselves. Pakistan has always progressed in an environment of isolation. Our indigenous manufacturing of defence capabilities, nuclear and missile defence systems, and China-Russia look policy shifts are only because of discriminatory attitude of our ‘friends’. Pakistanis are a different breed, they rise when someone tries to cow them down. Trump I am sure will prove to be a blessing in disguise for us.
AMNA SAQIB
Islamabad