The American president has spoken of a second round of negotiations and, in praising Field Marshal Asim Munir, said he is doing a great job and described him as “fantastic,” adding that the United States is increasingly inclined to come to Pakistan for talks. Earlier, the Iranian leadership had also identified Pakistan as its preferred venue for negotiations. This convergence points to the weight Pakistan now carries in global politics.
In the current configuration of international politics, among major rival powers, Pakistan stands out for maintaining strong, stable, and confidence-based relations across all sides. This is a distinction no other country currently enjoys.
The United States and China define the two poles of power in today’s world. The United States stands as the established superpower, while China continues its ascent as an emerging one. Most countries are pulled into one orbit or the other, with proximity to one often implying distance from the other.
The responsibility of resolving disputes rests with the parties themselves, while Pakistan remains available to support the process at every stage.
Pakistan, however, does not conform to this pattern. It maintains close engagement with both. Its relationship with the United States is shaped by decades of economic and strategic cooperation. At the same time, its ties with China are widely described as among Beijing’s most trusted partnerships. Pakistan maintains defence relations with both countries. Through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, China is deeply embedded in Pakistan’s economic landscape, while new opportunities are emerging in areas such as critical minerals with the United States. Pakistan’s friendship with China rests on deep trust, while its relations with the United States remain firmly intact. Donald Trump has repeatedly praised the field marshal, and recent statements from the American president further reflect this continued engagement.
A similar pattern is visible in the case of Iran and the United States. Their hostility has persisted for decades, with differences spanning generations. They remain positioned on opposite sides of a deep divide, like two banks of a river. Pakistan, however, occupies a rare space of trust with both. It is viewed with confidence in Washington as well as in Tehran, which is why both sides have turned to Pakistan as a venue for negotiations. One round of talks has already been held, and another is expected soon.
Within the Muslim world, relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia have long been shaped by tension. Here again, Pakistan holds a distinctive position. It maintains the trust of both Tehran and Riyadh and is able to engage with each on equal terms. When a thaw emerged between Iran and Saudi Arabia in the recent past, Pakistan played a facilitative role. Even today, its diplomatic engagement has helped prevent further escalation and maintain a fragile balance.
In many respects, the role often associated with the United Nations is increasingly reflected in Pakistan’s diplomatic conduct. It has helped reduce tensions and avert the risk of wider conflict.
At the same time, Pakistan is not acting as a judge or an arbitrator. Its role is that of a facilitator, bringing concerned parties to the table in good faith. The responsibility of resolving disputes rests with the parties themselves, while Pakistan remains available to support the process at every stage.
With this position, Pakistan has emerged as a significant actor not only in South Asia but also in the broader politics of the Middle East. It is increasingly viewed as a symbol of stability and engagement. As a responsible state, Pakistan continues to contribute to global peace and security. This distinct role also enhances its appeal as a natural destination for investment.
The writer is a lawyer and author based in Islamabad. He tweets @m_asifmahmood