A new AI cold war is emerging, and Pakistan must avoid becoming collateral damage

Though the recently released US-China Economic and Security Review Commission report offers interesting insights into the love-hate dynamics of the US-China relationship, it also highlights concerns that could affect Pakistan in the long run. The report acknowledges military cooperation between China and Pakistan and recognises the supremacy of Beijing's HQ-9 air defence system, PL-15 missiles and J-10 aircraft. However, the commission did not raise any concerns regarding China's offer to sell 40 J-35 fighter jets, KJ-500 aircraft and missiles to Pakistan in June 2025, showing that the US views Pakistan as a responsible stakeholder that is not fully aligned with either camp.