US Secretary of State Marco Rubio Praises Pakistan’s Role in Global Peace During Meeting with FM Ishaq Dar
Washington, DC – United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio commended Pakistan’s contributions to “global and regional peace” during his first in-person meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, according to a statement from Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) on Friday.
Dar, currently on an eight-day official visit to the US, arrived in Washington on Thursday after attending several “high-level signature events” in New York under Pakistan’s presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). These events included a special conference on Palestine.
US Recognizes Pakistan’s Sacrifices and Regional Role
During their meeting, Secretary Rubio acknowledged Pakistan’s “everlasting sacrifices in the war on terror” and its constructive contributions to global stability.
“Pakistan has always played a positive role in global and regional peace,” the FO quoted Rubio as saying.
Both sides held comprehensive discussions on bilateral relations, emphasizing trade, investment, agriculture, technology, minerals, counter-terrorism, and regional security.
Strengthening US-Pakistan Economic and Security Ties
Foreign Minister Dar praised the efforts of the US leadership, including President Donald Trump, for supporting peace in South Asia, particularly amid recent tensions between Pakistan and India.
He stressed Pakistan’s commitment to expanding bilateral ties, noting:
“Pakistan is an attractive destination for American businesses and investors. Both countries share a common approach to ensuring regional peace, while the Pakistani diaspora in the US serves as a vital bridge between our nations.”
Rubio and Dar reaffirmed their commitment to a long-term strategic partnership, with renewed focus on:
- Economic, trade, and investment cooperation
- Advancement in information technology and artificial intelligence
- Joint counter-terrorism efforts, including the upcoming US-Pakistan Counterterrorism Dialogue in Islamabad this August
Regional Stability and Multilateral Coordination
The FO noted that both leaders also discussed key regional and global developments, including coordination at the United Nations. Dar highlighted Pakistan’s willingness to mediate in regional disputes, including talks involving Iran, to preserve stability.
Rubio emphasized the importance of deepening collaboration in critical minerals, mining, and countering ISIS-K, along with boosting mutually beneficial trade ties.
Pakistan’s UNSC Presidency and Global Diplomacy
Dar’s visit coincides with Pakistan’s presidency of the UNSC for July, its first since 2013. Pakistan began its current two-year term as a non-permanent member in January 2025 and will serve through 2026.
During his visit to New York, Dar addressed a reception hosted by Pakistan’s UN Mission, calling for “inclusive dialogue and cooperative diplomacy” amid rising global tensions.
He also announced Pakistan’s candidacy for a seat on the UN Human Rights Council (2026–2028), backed by the Asia-Pacific Group, highlighting Islamabad’s proactive diplomatic agenda.
Looking Ahead
Dar is scheduled to speak at the Atlantic Council, where he will outline Pakistan’s perspective on regional security, global challenges, and the future of Pakistan-US relations.
As both nations reaffirm their partnership, the visit is expected to pave the way for deeper cooperation in trade, security, and diplomacy, reinforcing Pakistan’s role as a key player in promoting peace and stability in South Asia and beyond.
