A CRITICAL REVIEW OF POLICY SHIFT IN PAK-AFGHAN -US RELATIONS AFTER WITHDRAWAL OF USSR FROM AFGHANISTAN (1988-2023)

  • Mamoona Bashir Assistant Prof (Political Science), Govt Graduate College for Women Wapda Town Lahore
  • Noorain Bashir BS (English Language and Literature), Govt. College University Lahore
Keywords: Pakistan, USA, Afghanistan, Policy Shift

Abstract

The USSR invaded Afghanistan in 1979. The United States of America took this situation as an opportunity and became actively involved in the conflict. Pakistan joined the USA and supported the militant factions in Afghanistan. However, the end of war and emergence of the USA as the sole superpower of the world gave a new dimension to the Pak-US ties. The relations became strained until the 9/11 incident took place in 2001.Pakistan-US relations again reflected the warmth of good relations during the war against terrorism. But after the withdrawal of American-led NATO forces the USA viewed its ties with Pakistan through the lens of Afghanistan. The study explored the key factors that have shaped the policy shift in US relations with Pakistan since the US evacuation from Afghanistan. The study followed a longitudinal design while covering the period from 1990-2023. A qualitative approach was applied to trace, evaluate, and understand the US strategic interests in Pakistan and Afghanistan as the US is the sole ‘superpower’. Moreover, the triangular relations between the US, Pakistan, and Afghanistan is examined. A way forward is suggested based on the findings of the study.

Published
2024-12-20
How to Cite
Mamoona Bashir, & Noorain Bashir. (2024). A CRITICAL REVIEW OF POLICY SHIFT IN PAK-AFGHAN -US RELATIONS AFTER WITHDRAWAL OF USSR FROM AFGHANISTAN (1988-2023). Journal of Arts & Social Sciences , 11(2), 79-88. https://doi.org/10.46662/jass.v11i2.495