WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Friday with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Washington to discuss strengthening economic ties and enhancing cooperation in critical minerals and counterterrorism efforts. The meeting marked their first in-person interaction, following earlier conversations by phone. Rubio praised Pakistan’s sacrifices in the global fight against terrorism and its role in maintaining regional and global peace.
According to a statement from Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the U.S. official “lauded Pakistan’s everlasting sacrifices in the war on terror,” underscoring Islamabad’s continued commitment to peace and stability. The two leaders held comprehensive talks on a wide range of issues. Topics included boosting bilateral trade, encouraging foreign investment, and expanding collaboration in sectors such as agriculture, information technology, artificial intelligence, and energy. They also exchanged views on current global challenges and regional tensions, particularly in South Asia.
Dar emphasized the importance of a long-term partnership between the United States and Pakistan. “We reaffirmed our commitment to deepening bilateral relations with a renewed focus on trade, investment, and technological cooperation,” Dar said after the meeting. He also expressed appreciation for what he described as the “constructive role” the U.S. has played in easing tensions between Pakistan and India. “The efforts of U.S. leadership, including those of President Donald Trump, in promoting peace in the region are commendable,” he said.
Dar arrived in Washington on Thursday night as part of his eight-day official visit to the United States. He began his trip earlier in the week in New York, where he represented Pakistan during high-level meetings at the United Nations Security Council. Pakistan currently holds the rotating presidency of the UNSC for July 2025, its first since 2013.
While in New York, Dar participated in a conference on Palestine and addressed a reception hosted by Pakistan’s Mission to the UN. During his speech, he called for diplomacy and dialogue over confrontation. “Pakistan believes in inclusive diplomacy and peaceful resolution of disputes,” he said. The Security Council recently adopted a Pakistan-sponsored resolution, numbered 2788, which calls for stronger international systems to peacefully settle global conflicts. The resolution passed unanimously.
Dar also announced that Pakistan would seek a seat on the UN Human Rights Council for the 2026–2028 term. The Asia-Pacific Group has endorsed its candidacy. Pakistan previously served on the council from 2020 to 2023. Back in Washington, the two countries appeared united in their goal to build stronger economic ties. Dar noted that Pakistan is becoming an attractive destination for American investors and that ongoing trade talks between the two nations are making positive progress.
“American businesses see opportunities in Pakistan’s growing economy,” Dar said. “The Pakistani American community plays a vital role in bridging our two nations.”
He also highlighted the potential for cooperation in artificial intelligence and advanced technologies. Both sides agreed to continue coordination at multilateral forums, especially at the United Nations. Rubio and Dar affirmed their commitment to advancing shared interests, including counterterrorism, regional peace, and sustainable development. They expressed optimism that continued dialogue would help both nations build a more stable and mutually beneficial relationship.
Dar is also scheduled to speak at The Atlantic Council, a U.S. think tank. There, he will share Pakistan’s perspective on key global and regional issues, as well as the future of U.S.-Pakistan relations.
