Trump’s “America First” Policy: Impact on Pakistan and Global Relations
January 24, 2025 – As the world’s sole superpower, the United States remains the focal point of global attention during presidential elections and inaugurations. The policies and actions of the U.S. have far-reaching effects on international systems. On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump, after taking his oath, delivered a speech centered around the slogan “America First,” which draws parallels to former Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf’s “Pakistan First” motto. This raises the question: Does this mean America will retreat from global leadership and focus solely on its own interests?
In his speech, President Trump outlined strict policies regarding immigration, alongside plans for the revitalization of American industries and social reforms. Notably, before his inauguration, Trump also expressed skepticism about the lasting impact of the Gaza peace deal, suggesting it may not stand the test of time.
Trump’s first term saw strained relations with Pakistan, particularly due to accusations of Pakistan harboring terrorists and subsequent cuts in military aid. With his “America First” agenda, it is likely that U.S. aid to countries like Pakistan will decrease further.
Given these developments, foreign policy experts are closely analyzing the impact of Trump’s policies on Pakistan and the world at large.
**Pressure on Pakistan Will Increase, Says Ambassador Abdul Basit**
In an interview with V News, former senior Pakistani diplomat Abdul Basit highlighted that under Trump’s leadership, Pakistan is not a priority for the U.S. He pointed out that increasing proximity between the U.S. and India could lead to greater pressure on Pakistan. He also stated that Pakistan’s strategic partnership with China remains vital and has no alternative in the current scenario.
Basit further explained that Trump’s anti-immigration policies will likely affect Pakistani nationals, especially those planning to travel to or settle in the U.S. He described Trump’s inaugural speech as a clear indication of his aggressive stance and noted that Trump’s unpredictable foreign policy is causing unease worldwide. “Trump’s foreign policy decisions are often short-term and difficult to predict,” he added.
**American Self-Interest Will Dominate, Says Hussain Haqqani**
Hussain Haqqani, former Pakistani ambassador to the U.S. and a noted researcher, shared his thoughts on social media, stating that American foreign policy is no longer influenced by photo ops with prominent individuals. “The real question now is where America stands on key issues,” Haqqani remarked. He noted that while there were complaints about American interventionism in the past, now the world is increasingly concerned about U.S. self-interest. Some are even suggesting that America is stepping back from its role as the leader of the free world.
According to Haqqani, U.S. foreign policy is now driven by the priority of ensuring the prosperity of American citizens, with little regard for the concerns of other nations. “Building long-term relationships with American policymakers and engaging in dialogue is the only way forward for countries,” he emphasized.
Haqqani also commented on Trump’s stance towards immigration, specifically addressing India’s assistance in facilitating the return of illegal Indian immigrants from the U.S. “Pakistan should also consider accepting the return of its illegal immigrants, many of whom are incarcerated in American jails,” Haqqani suggested, adding that some Pakistani nationals had destroyed their passports or burned them, complicating their legal status.
As President Trump’s second term unfolds, it remains to be seen how his “America First” approach will shape U.S.-Pakistan relations and impact global geopolitics.
