Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington on Friday in a landmark engagement aimed at strengthening bilateral relations across multiple sectors.
This marks the first in-person meeting between the two leaders, following earlier telephonic interactions.
The high-level discussions were held at the US State Department, where Ishaq Dar was warmly received by senior American officials. He was accompanied by Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, and senior members of the Pakistani foreign ministry. Delegation-level talks were held with participation of senior officials from both sides.
According to officials, the detailed talks covered a wide range of issues and potential cooperation in various sectors. There was particular focus on enhancing bilateral trade and economic ties, investment, technology exchange, agriculture, and mineral development.
Dar expressed Pakistan's desire to further expand and stabilise relations with the United States, and expressed optimism about progress in the ongoing trade dialogue between the two nations.
The meeting also addressed counter-terrorism efforts and regional peace, with the US secretary of state acknowledging Pakistan's enduring sacrifices in the global fight against terrorism. “Pakistan has always played a positive role in global and regional peace,” said Secretary Rubio.
Foreign Minister Dar echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to peace and cooperation. He paid tribute to the efforts of US President Donald Trump and the US leadership in promoting global peace and defusing tensions between Pakistan and India. "President Trump's role and efforts regarding the recent Pakistan-India tension are commendable," he remarked.
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Dar also highlighted Pakistan’s potential as a key destination for American investors, pointing to opportunities in sectors like energy, agriculture, minerals, and emerging technologies. “Pakistan is an attractive destination for the American business community,” he said.
On regional peace, the foreign minister expressed that there was strong alignment in the perspectives and strategic interests of the two countries. He also praised the Pakistani-American community for serving as a vital bridge between the two nations.
The two sides reiterated their shared commitment to building systematic and resilient ties through consistent diplomatic engagement.
