Cost-Benefit Analysis of the U.S. – Pakistan Anti-Terror Alliance:A Pakistani Perspective

　　ABSTRACT: In the U.S. – Pakistan anti-terror alliance, the United States is in a position of leadership, while Pakistan is in a position of receiving orders. The U.S. – Pakistan anti-terror alliance mainly serves the national interests of the United States. Pakistan made the decision to join the alliance with the United States only after conducting a careful cost-benefit analysis. As the core strategic concern of the U.S. has gradually shifted from counter-terrorism to the Asia Pacific Region, the strategic position of Pakistan has declined. In its analysis of the new structure of costs and benefits, Pakistan has opted, as a rational actor, to continue as a member of the U.S. lead anti-terror alliance. At the same time, in preparation for the Central Asian security scenario that will ensue following the withdrawal of U.S. troops from the region, it has also sought a diplomatic policy independent of American interests. In the future, the U.S. – Pakistan alliance will be maintained, however the level of cooperation will decline, and there is risk that relations will deteriorate.