Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephonic conversation with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, expressing appreciation for America’s active diplomatic role in preventing a major catastrophe amid heightened tensions in the Middle East.

During the call, PM Sharif extended warm wishes to US President Donald Trump, commending his bold leadership and describing his recent statements about Pakistan as “most encouraging.” He also praised Secretary Rubio’s active diplomacy, which he said played a significant role in averting conflict between two nuclear-armed states: Pakistan and India.

Pakistan ready for peaceful talks with India

Reaffirming Pakistan's commitment to regional peace, PM Shehbaz expressed his desire for dialogue with India on all outstanding issues, including Kashmir, the Indus Waters Treaty, trade, and counter-terrorism efforts.

The two sides also discussed the situation in the Middle East and the Iran-Israel crisis. Shehbaz said Pakistan stands ready to play a constructive role in resolving the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict and emphasized Islamabad’s consistent call for de-escalation and diplomacy in the Middle East.

PM Shehbaz also termed the meeting between President Trump and Field Marshal Asim Munir as positive.

Expanding Pak-US cooperation

Highlighting Pakistan's strategic priorities, PM Shehbaz stressed the need to enhance trade, investment, and energy cooperation with the United States. He also called for increased collaboration in key sectors, including mining, rare minerals, and information technology (IT).

The premier reiterated Pakistan’s strong resolve against terrorism, stating that operations against banned outfits like the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and other extremist groups would continue.

Also Read: Trump, Asim Munir stress peaceful resolution of Iran-Israel conflict

Secretary Marco Rubio acknowledged Pakistan’s robust counter-terrorism efforts and assured the PM of Washington’s full support and cooperation in this regard.

Strengthening bilateral ties

Both leaders agreed to transform Pak-US relations into concrete and practical steps, underscoring the importance of high-level contacts in boosting bilateral relations.

Prime Minister Shehbaz extended a formal invitation to President Donald Trump and Secretary Marco Rubio to visit Pakistan at their earliest convenience. Secretary Rubio responded positively and expressed interest in deepening bilateral ties.

Rubio also praised Pakistan’s commitment to the ceasefire agreement with India and recognized Islamabad’s constructive role in regional peace efforts, specifically with Iran.

Also Read: Trump rejects Modi’s rebuttal on US mediation in India–Pakistan ceasefire

A couple of days ago, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir held a significant meeting with US President Trump at the White House, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The two leaders attended a luncheon at the Cabinet Room, followed by Field Marshal Munir’s visit to the Oval Office.

The meeting was also attended by US Secretary of State Rubio and Special Representative for the Middle East Steve Witkoff. ISPR said President Trump praised Pakistan's contributions to peace efforts and counterterrorism operations.

During the meeting between Trump and Asim Munir, both leaders agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in areas including counterterrorism, trade, technology, and mineral development.