US-Pakistan Trust Deficit and the War on Terror

摘要

The relationship between Pakistan and United States has been and continues to be complex and varied. Throughout Pakistan's brief history, the two countries have oscillated from an uneasy alignment, to nearly a complete detachment, to re-alignment, then to renewed sanctions, and now back to being allies. During the periods of cooperation, both countries had compelling coincident interests and generally overlooked past or ongoing differences. The global war on terrorism (GWOT) has provided the most current opportunity for establishing a close and lasting U.S.-Pakistan relationship. With Pakistan being an unwelcome addition to the nuclear regime, a crucial partner in the GWOT, and with a volatile political and social environment, the United States faces a broad range of foreign policy challenges when dealing with Pakistan. Adding to this complexity is the friction caused by disagreements of the two allies on operational aspects of the conduct of the GWOT. Pakistan has repeatedly rejected requests by the United States to allow its combat troops to operate in the tribal areas inside Pakistan or to allow U.S. personnel to deal directly with local tribal leaders. This coupled with Pakistan's cautious and measured approach towards combating militancy, particularly in the North-West Frontier Province (NWFP) and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), has been met with sharp criticism from many influential quarters within the United States. Also, certain elements in Pakistan view the United States as a disloyal and inconsistent friend that cannot be relied upon. As for the larger Pakistani population, they also are cautious about current U.S. support. This paper evaluates the current U.S.-Pakistani relationship, examines and assesses the sources of friction and distrust between the two countries, and recommends specific measures both countries can take to solidify their relationship, provide for long-term regional stability, and make substantial progress in the GWOT.