Pakistan–US Strategic Relations: The Role of Regional Security and Institutional Alliances (NATO & SCO)

This study examines the bilateral relationship between Pakistan and the United States with a focus on military cooperation and regional security, analyzed within the broader frameworks of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and NATO. Employing a mixed-method research design, the study integrates qualitative insights and quantitative analysis using SPSS. Data were collected from 125 respondents across multiple academic institutions in Pakistan, selected through stratified random sampling to ensure diverse representation. Qualitative interview data were collected from 25 respondents, while quantitative data were obtained from 100 respondents and analyzed using regression analysis. The findings reveal that regional security is the most significant determinant of Pakistan–US relations (β = 0.452, p = 0.034), highlighting the centrality of security cooperation in shaping bilateral engagement. Gender and familiarity with the subject also show positive influences, whereas military cooperation, NATO, and SCO variables are statistically insignificant. Respondents emphasize that Pakistan–US relations are historically anchored in military cooperation, with perceived benefits for counterterrorism and regional stabilization, particularly in Afghanistan. However, concerns persist regarding fluctuating trust, geopolitical tensions, and shifting regional power dynamics involving China and India. The study concludes that Pakistan–US relations are characterized by both cooperation and strategic uncertainty, requiring sustained diplomatic engagement and clearer communication mechanisms to enhance long-term regional stability.