Ishaq Dar, Rubio Vow to Deepen US-Pakistan Ties on Regional Issues

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Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone call to discuss bilateral ties and regional stability, pledging continued cooperation.

On August 4, 2025, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, engaged in a telephonic conversation with United States (US) Secretary of State Marco Rubio, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing critical regional and international issues. The discussion, part of ongoing diplomatic efforts, underscored a mutual commitment to deepen cooperation in trade, counterterrorism, and regional stability, according to a statement from Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

The call followed a productive in-person meeting between Dar and Rubio on July 25 in Washington, D.C., marking a significant step in revitalizing US-Pakistan relations. Both leaders explored ways to enhance trade, with a recent agreement reducing US tariffs on Pakistani imports to 19 percent, signaling a push for stronger economic ties. They also discussed collaboration in critical minerals and oil exploration, with US President Donald Trump announcing a partnership to develop Pakistan’s oil reserves. Dar emphasized Pakistan’s appeal as an investment destination, highlighting opportunities in technology and agriculture.

Regional security was a key focus, with both sides addressing the ongoing challenge of terrorism. Rubio acknowledged Pakistan’s significant sacrifices in counterterrorism efforts, noting its constructive role in promoting stability. The leaders also touched on the issue of US military equipment left in Afghanistan after the 2021 withdrawal, agreeing on the need to resolve concerns about its potential misuse by groups like the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Discussions on Afghanistan’s stability reflected shared interests in preventing cross-border threats.

Dar and Rubio reaffirmed their commitment to regular dialogue, with this being their second call in a week, signaling a warming of ties after years of strained relations. The MOFA statement highlighted their agreement to maintain close contact and advance mutual goals. This diplomatic momentum, bolstered by Trump’s recent engagement with Pakistan, including his role in de-escalating tensions with India in May, suggests a strategic reset aimed at fostering stability and economic growth in the region.