China's $2 Billion Pakistan Loan Shows Desire to Keep Khan Close

  • Large reported loan just days after elections reinforces ties
  • Pakistan’s relationship with U.S. faces ‘uncertain future’
Imran KhanPhotographer: Aamir Qureshi/AFP via Getty Images
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If there were any doubts about China’s intent to keep ties close with its all-weather ally Pakistan, Beijing demolished them with a reported $2 billion loan just days after the election of a new Pakistani premier.

While cricketing legend Imran Khan attempts to form a coalition government, China has stepped up to reinforce a geopolitical alliance that shapes the South Asian nation’s policies toward the U.S. and India. The announcement caused Pakistan’s rupee to jump the most in nearly a decade as Khan takes power with an economy in chaos.