Dar, Rubio pledge to strengthen bilateral ties; Discuss trade, critical minerals; FMs meeting marks major breakthrough
Pakistan Seeks Stronger Ties with US in Key Meeting Between Dar and Rubio
WASHINGTON: In a significant diplomatic engagement, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the State Department, marking the first in-person foreign ministerial-level talks between the two nations in several years.
The meeting signaled a mutual desire to strengthen bilateral relations, with Dar emphasizing Pakistan’s goal for an “expanded and stable” partnership with Washington. The two leaders identified “strong convergences” on various issues, building upon recent positive momentum in ties.
Key Discussion Points:
- Economic Cooperation:Both sides reviewed progress in the Pak-US trade dialogue, exploring opportunities in trade, investment, agriculture, technology, and critical minerals
- Security Collaboration:Discussed counterterrorism efforts, with Rubio acknowledging Pakistan’s sacrifices in combating extremism
- Regional Stability:Exchanged views on maintaining peace in South Asia and beyond
Context of Renewed Engagement:
The meeting follows several positive developments in bilateral relations:
- Pakistan’s crucial assistance in the 2021 Kabul Airport attack investigation helped reset ties
- The Trump administration’s active role in mediating Pakistan-India tensions brought the nations closer
- The unprecedented White House meeting between President Trump and Pakistan’s Army Chief earlier this year signaled warming relations
Official Statements:
Foreign Minister Dar:
- Highlighted Pakistan as an attractive destination for US investment
- Appreciated the Pakistani-American community’s role as a bilateral bridge
- Reaffirmed commitment to regional peace and stability
Secretary Rubio (via Twitter):
“Productive discussion with FM Dar on expanding trade and critical minerals cooperation. Grateful for Pakistan’s counterterrorism partnership and regional stability efforts.”
The talks, attended by senior officials from both sides including Pakistan’s Ambassador to the US, reflect a concerted effort to institutionalize bilateral engagement. Both leaders committed to enhancing cooperation across multiple sectors for long-term mutual benefit.
This high-level interaction marks a departure from the previous administration’s approach and demonstrates both nations’ willingness to build a more substantive, multidimensional partnership.
