On Independence Day 2025, the United States extended warm wishes to both India and Pakistan, but with subtly distinct approaches that underscored the evolving dynamics of its South Asia policy. While the message to India focused on the historic partnership and strategic alignment between the two nations, the message to Pakistan emphasized the potential for enhanced economic cooperation, particularly in the realm of critical minerals and hydrocarbons.
To India, the U.S. reiterated its commitment to a comprehensive global strategic partnership anchored in shared interests, democratic values, and robust people-to-people ties. This was accompanied by ongoing defense cooperation, exemplified by the upcoming India-US Defence Policy Group meeting and the joint military exercise "Yudh Abhyas" in Alaska. Furthermore, plans are underway to sign a new 10-year Framework for the US-India Major Defence Partnership in the 21st Century, signaling a continued deepening of defense ties. Despite recent trade disputes and Trump's previous claims of mediating conflicts with Pakistan, India remains keen on maintaining its strategic partnership with the U.S..
In its message to Pakistan, the U.S. expressed eagerness to enhance collaboration in critical minerals and hydrocarbons, highlighting the significance of the ongoing partnership between the two countries. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the potential for dynamic business partnerships that would promote a prosperous future for both Americans and Pakistanis. This renewed focus on economic cooperation comes amid reports that Pakistan has been actively courting U.S. interests by offering access to its untapped mineral wealth, particularly in Balochistan. The province is home to deposits of rare earth elements, copper, lithium, and other valuable resources. The U.S. also "appreciated" Pakistan's engagement in counterterrorism and trade.
The seemingly contrasting approaches in the U.S. messages to India and Pakistan reflect a recalibration of Washington's South Asia policy, with a renewed emphasis on transactional diplomacy and resource considerations. The Trump administration appears keen to leverage Pakistan's mineral wealth to secure access to critical resources, while simultaneously maintaining a strong strategic partnership with India. This strategy aligns with Trump's broader approach to international diplomacy, which often prioritizes economic interests and deal-making.
However, this approach has raised concerns in India, where some perceive a growing U.S. rapprochement with Pakistan. Trump's past claims of resolving conflicts between India and Pakistan have also been met with skepticism in New Delhi, which has long insisted on handling issues with Pakistan bilaterally. Despite these concerns, India remains committed to its strategic autonomy and is actively diversifying its partnerships, including strengthening ties with Russia and China.
The U.S. State Department has affirmed that its relationship with both India and Pakistan "remains unchanged – good," and that its diplomats are "committed to both nations". State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce emphasized that the U.S. working with both nations is good news for the region and the world, and will promote a beneficial future. The U.S. also claims to have played a role in stopping the India-Pakistan war, a claim that India denies.
Whether the U.S. can successfully balance its relationships with India and Pakistan remains to be seen. The evolving geopolitical landscape, coupled with the distinct interests and priorities of each nation, presents both opportunities and challenges for U.S. foreign policy in South Asia.
