LAHORE (Dunya News) – Former foreign minister of state Hina Rabbani Khar criticised US president Donald Trump’s second term, calling it “irrational” and saying the United States was abandoning its longstanding principles at ThinkFest 2026 formally opened on Friday at the Alhamra Arts Council in Lahore.
Speaking at the opening session, former minister of state Hina Rabbani Khar criticised US president Donald Trump’s policies.
Khar said China remained Pakistan’s most reliable strategic partner, adding that Islamabad had failed to fully benefit from Chinese technological cooperation. She noted that while China avoids rhetoric and focuses on action, Pakistan had moved closer to the US after refusing to thank Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She also said Pakistan was regaining diplomatic space with Washington and stressed the importance of learning from history.
Najam Sethi sets the tone for ThinkFest 2026 on opening day in Lahore
Addressing regional issues, Khar opposed closing the border with Afghanistan and urged a consistent, long-term policy towards Kabul, while reaffirming that Pakistan would not compromise on its security. She added that global norms had shifted significantly, citing the US withdrawal from international climate initiatives as evidence of changing world order.
Meanwhile, Professor Wali Nasr said Pakistan appeared to be in a “honeymoon” phase with the United States but questioned what tangible gains Islamabad was securing from the relationship. He added that Pakistan was under no pressure regarding its military ties with China.
ThinkFest 2026 will continue for three days, featuring discussions on national, regional, and international political and social developments.