ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio Hold First Official Call to Discuss Counter-Terrorism, Trade
In their first official interaction, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a telephonic conversation on Monday, focusing on bilateral relations, regional security, counter-terrorism cooperation, and economic engagement.
According to a statement issued by Pakistan’s Foreign Office, Secretary Rubio appreciated Pakistan’s ongoing efforts in the fight against terrorism and expressed Washington’s desire to deepen counter-terrorism collaboration with Islamabad. The call comes at a time when Pakistan is grappling with a resurgence in terrorist activities, particularly targeting security forces and law enforcement agencies following the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan after the 2021 US military withdrawal.
Foreign Minister Dar, during the conversation, underlined Pakistan’s past successes in curbing terrorism between 2013 and 2018—a period marked by significant human and economic losses for the country. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to continuing its counter-terrorism operations and contributing to regional stability.
Highlighting a pressing issue, both officials also discussed the fate of US military equipment left behind in Afghanistan, estimated at $7 billion. The equipment, originally meant for Afghan forces, fell into the hands of the Taliban during their takeover in August 2021. While the US military had attempted to dismantle much of it during their exit, large quantities were reportedly seized intact. Rubio acknowledged the growing concerns over these weapons potentially fueling regional instability, and both sides agreed on the need to address the matter.
In addition to security cooperation, economic engagement featured prominently in the discussion. Foreign Minister Dar stressed the importance of enhancing trade and investment ties between the two nations. He expressed hope that cooperation in critical areas such as trade, energy, and minerals would pave the way for a stronger partnership.
Secretary Rubio affirmed the US’s willingness to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan, particularly in sectors involving critical minerals. He emphasized that economic and trade cooperation would be a cornerstone of future bilateral relations. The leaders agreed to maintain close communication and work together to promote mutual interests.
However, the diplomatic conversation occurred just days after US President Donald Trump imposed a significant 29% tariff on imports from Pakistan, a sharp increase from the 10% baseline that came into effect on April 5. The new tariff, set to be enforced on April 9, is expected to impact Pakistan’s export-driven economy, already struggling with inflation and a widening trade deficit.
Despite the looming trade restrictions, both sides expressed optimism about future collaboration and strengthening strategic ties.
