Curtis, Lisa

Abstract
In the midst of persistent economic challenges and deteriorating ties with the US, Pakistan is reinvigorating links with traditional partners, China and Saudi Arabia, and reaching out to neighbors like Iran to diversify its foreign policy and lessen its dependence on the US. The 2010 flood disaster exacerbated Pakistan’s economic problems and demonstrated its need for robust outside economic assistance. Pakistan cannot count on China for all of its assistance needs and thus will likely avoid severing ties completely with the US. To the extent that Pakistan builds stronger economic ties with its neighbors, its new regional focus could contribute to some economic progress in the country.