US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday during Dar’s visit to Washington to discuss the evolving bilateral relationship between the United States and Pakistan.
Key Discussions and Collaborations
Following their meeting, Rubio shared insights into their discussions, thanking Dar for “Pakistan’s partnership in countering terrorism and preserving regional stability.” He also highlighted the importance of expanding bilateral trade and enhancing collaboration in the minerals sector, aiming to strengthen economic ties.
Recent Developments in Counter-Terrorism
Rubio’s comments come on the heels of his announcement that the US will designate the Tehrik-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TRF), a front for the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), as both a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and a specially designated global terrorist (SDGT). This organization had claimed responsibility for a deadly attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians.
Focus on India-Pakistan Relations
As part of the agenda for Dar’s visit, Islamabad indicated that discussions would include the ongoing India-Pakistan tension. “Exchange of views will also take place on the Pakistan-India question,” said Shafqat Ali Khan, spokesperson for the Foreign Office, on Thursday.
The US has repeatedly claimed credit for facilitating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan—an assertion that India has denied but Islamabad acknowledges. “We remain grateful for the role played by the US in de-escalation of tensions leading to ceasefire,” Khan added, briefings on Dar’s US visit.
