The implications of U.S. elections extend far beyond American borders. As Kamala Harris and Donald Trump emerge as central figures in the 2024 presidential race, countries around the world, including Pakistan, are closely watching. The outcome of this election could significantly influence Pakistan’s economic policies, diplomatic relations, and security dynamics. This article explores the potential impact of a Harris or Trump administration on Pakistan and what lies ahead for this South Asian nation.
We’re all quite familiar with Trump. But who is Kamala Harris? Kamala Harris, born on October 20, 1964, is a member of the Third Baptist Church of San Francisco and has a mixed heritage of Black and South Asian descent. Her mother, the late Shyamala Gopalan, was of Indian Tamil descent from Chennai, India, and held a PhD. Her father, Donald Jasper Harris, is of Jamaican descent and is an economist and professor emeritus at Stanford University. Kamala has a younger sister, Maya Harris, who is a lawyer, public policy advocate, and political analyst, and served as a senior policy advisor to Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign.
Pakistan Under Donald Trump:
Pakistan has already experienced Trump’s presidency, so his policies might not be surprising. Trump had some positive aspects for Pakistan, particularly in prioritizing counter-terrorism. His administration used military force and economic sanctions to combat terrorism, carrying out drone strikes and targeting terrorist leaders in Afghanistan and Pakistan. In Afghanistan, Trump aimed to reduce the U.S. military presence while negotiating with the Taliban, resulting in the Doha Agreement for U.S. troop withdrawal. He applied pressure through sanctions and military actions on countries perceived to harbor terrorists.
Regarding the Kashmir dispute, Trump generally supported India’s position, occasionally offering to mediate between India and Pakistan, but his administration was less vocal about human rights issues in the region.
Trump viewed Pakistan-China relations with caution, focusing on Pakistan mainly through the lens of counter-terrorism and regional stability rather than as a broader geopolitical partner. He strengthened U.S.-India relations, seeing India as a key strategic ally to counter China’s influence in the region, which sometimes strained U.S.-Pakistan relations.
Pakistan Under Kamila Harris:
Kamala Harris is expected to employ a combination of military, diplomatic, and economic tools to enhance regional stability and support counter-terrorism efforts.
In Afghanistan, Harris would focus on preventing the country from becoming a terrorist haven again, prioritizing diplomatic solutions and international cooperation.
On the Kashmir dispute, Harris may adopt a more balanced approach, emphasizing human rights and democratic values. She has previously expressed concerns about the situation in Kashmir, which could result in a more vocal stance on human rights issues.
Regarding Pakistan-China relations, Harris is likely to recognize their strategic importance while balancing US interests in the region. She might engage Pakistan in broader diplomatic and economic initiatives to counter China’s influence.
The future of U.S.-Pakistan relations relies significantly on the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Regardless of whether Harris or Trump assumes office, Pakistan has to get ready for a challenging mix of security, diplomatic, and economic issues.
The U.S. Presidential Election will take place on 5th November, 2024.
