Lahore: In a bold bid to revamp its global image, Pakistan is pouring millions of dollars into high-stakes public relations efforts in the United States, with a keen eye on winning over President Donald Trump in his second term.
Sources reveal that Islamabad has roped in top PR firms to lobby influencers and shape media narratives, aiming to highlight its economic strides and strategic alliances.
At the helm are Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, who recently wrapped up a crucial US visit. Aurangzeb’s trip garnered glowing coverage in USA Today, a leading American publication, on December 22. The feature, titled “Pakistan is Moving Forward with a New Foundation”, spotlighted the nation’s macroeconomic reforms, export-driven growth, and developmental projects. Behind the scenes, global firm One World Media has been instrumental in syndicating such content, though some pieces carry sponsored disclaimers.
Critics point to glossy reports on women’s empowerment, which claim Pakistan’s inclusive progress but feature visuals dominated by men — one woman amid 15 male figures. Even ads for Basmati rice appeared alongside, marked as paid promotions. Pakistan’s overtures extend beyond PR: it offers logistical support for US drone operations in Afghanistan, plus opportunities in rare earth mining, oil exploration, and cryptocurrency ventures involving Trump family businesses.
Trump’s warmth is evident. He hosted Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir — whom he dubbed his “favourite field marshal”— for a White House lunch alongside Sharif, showering praise in multiple interactions. This financial splurge underscores Pakistan’s desperation to shed its troubled past and forge stronger ties with Washington.