Washington D.C. — In a significant diplomatic engagement aimed at strengthening Pakistan-U.S. ties, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, held a wide-ranging meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington D.C. on Thursday.
The two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of Pakistan-U.S. bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation across key sectors, particularly in the pursuit of regional peace, economic growth, and counterterrorism.
Senator Dar commended the critical role played by U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary Rubio in defusing recent tensions between Pakistan and India. He lauded their successful diplomatic efforts to facilitate a ceasefire, which averted the risk of escalation between two nuclear-armed neighbors.
Underscoring the centrality of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute to long-term peace in South Asia, the Deputy Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan’s consistent stance that the issue must be resolved in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
Highlighting Pakistan’s proactive leadership at the United Nations Security Council during its presidency, Senator Dar briefed Secretary Rubio on key initiatives spearheaded by Pakistan, particularly the unanimous adoption of Resolution 2788 on the “Peaceful Settlement of Disputes.”
The two leaders also explored avenues to expand economic cooperation. Senator Dar emphasized the untapped potential in sectors such as information technology, artificial intelligence, blockchain and crypto technologies, and critical minerals—inviting greater U.S. investment and joint ventures both at government and private-sector levels.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s longstanding contributions to global counterterrorism efforts, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the country’s sacrifices as a frontline state in the fight against terrorism. He stressed the importance of renewed collaboration with the United States to enhance regional security and eliminate terrorism in all its forms.
The meeting also touched on pressing global challenges, including the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Both sides emphasized the need for sustained international efforts to ensure peace and stability in the Middle East. Senator Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to contribute meaningfully to global peacebuilding initiatives.
Secretary Rubio acknowledged Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting regional peace and stability. He appreciated Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining the ceasefire understanding with India and welcomed Islamabad’s engagement on economic and security issues. He expressed strong interest in strengthening bilateral trade, investment, and counterterrorism cooperation.
The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their shared vision of a long-term, resilient partnership between Pakistan and the United States, based on mutual respect, shared interests, and a commitment to addressing regional and global challenges collaboratively.
BY: Nadeem Faisal
