Diplomatic Engagement: Dar and Rubio Discuss Bilateral Ties

ISLAMABAD: In a promising move towards enhanced diplomatic relations, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar engaged in a second telephonic conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio within a week, building upon his recent visit to the United States.

According to a statement shared by the Foreign Office, the high-ranking officials from Pakistan and the US addressed a spectrum of mutual interests and exchanged perspectives on pressing regional and global matters.

“Both parties have committed to maintaining communication and pursuing collaborative opportunities in areas of shared importance,” the Foreign Office stated.

During their preceding discussion, both leaders deliberated on vital bilateral issues, including trade regulations, alongside regional and global concerns of mutual relevance, as per the Foreign Office.

Relations between Islamabad and Washington have seen an upswing following a period of diplomatic coolness. This positive shift is highlighted by US President Donald Trump’s cordial welcome of Field Marshal Asim Munir at the White House last month.

The phone call occurred shortly after the two nations finalized a trade agreement focused on tariffs and petroleum reserves, signifying growing confidence and stronger economic bonds between Islamabad and Washington.

According to the Ministry of Finance, the successful outcome was achieved during Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb’s discussions with the US Secretary of Commerce and Trade Representative. Pakistan’s Ambassador to the US, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, and Commerce Secretary Jawad Paul were also present.

“The objective of this agreement is to stimulate bilateral commerce, enhance market accessibility, encourage investment, and reinforce partnerships in sectors of mutual advantage,” the official declaration conveyed.

“As part of the accord, there will be a decrease in tariffs, notably on Pakistani goods entering the US, paving the way for revitalized economic collaboration between both nations.

Upon announcing the agreement, Trump remarked, “We have just finalized an agreement with Pakistan, under which both nations will collaborate on harnessing their significant oil reserves.”

“We are currently in the process of selecting the oil company to spearhead this venture. It’s conceivable that they might even be selling oil to India in the future!” he shared on social media.

As per data from the Office of the US Trade Representative’s website, the total value of US goods traded with Pakistan reached roughly $7.3 billion in 2024, marking an increase from approximately $6.9 billion in 2023. The US experienced a goods trade deficit of $3 billion with Pakistan in 2024, reflecting a 5.2% rise compared to 2023.

During his initial meeting with his Pakistani counterpart on July 25, Rubio acknowledged Pakistan’s unparalleled contributions to the fight against terrorism and commended the country’s active involvement in promoting global and regional stability.

The meeting was conducted at the delegation level, with participation from senior officials representing both countries. Discussions spanned a wide array of subjects, encompassing bilateral relations, potential avenues for increased cooperation in trade, economic affairs, investment, counterterrorism efforts, and regional peace initiatives.

Both leaders reiterated their dedication to enhancing bilateral ties and pledged to collaborate towards shared objectives.

FM Dar expressed gratitude for President Trump’s role in easing tensions between Pakistan and India, recognizing his endeavors as commendable. He emphasized Pakistan’s desire for stronger and more enduring relations with the US.