On July 25, 2025, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a pivotal meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington, marking their first in-person engagement to bolster bilateral relations. Hosted at the US State Department, Dar was warmly welcomed by senior officials, accompanied by Pakistan’s Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh and foreign ministry representatives. The delegation-level discussions covered a broad spectrum of cooperative opportunities, with a focus on trade, investment, technology, agriculture, and mineral development.

Dar emphasized Pakistan’s eagerness to strengthen and stabilize ties with the United States, expressing confidence in advancing ongoing trade dialogues. He highlighted Pakistan’s appeal as a hub for American investors, particularly in energy, agriculture, minerals, and emerging technologies, stating, “Pakistan offers significant opportunities for the American business community.”

The talks also addressed regional peace and counter-terrorism, with Rubio acknowledging Pakistan’s substantial sacrifices in the global fight against terrorism. “Pakistan has consistently contributed to regional and global peace,” Rubio noted. Dar reciprocated, commending US President Donald Trump’s efforts in easing tensions between Pakistan and India, describing them as “commendable.”

Both leaders underscored shared strategic interests and the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement to build resilient ties. Dar praised the Pakistani-American community for fostering stronger connections between the two nations. The meeting reaffirmed a mutual commitment to expanding cooperation across diverse sectors, setting the stage for a robust partnership amid evolving global and regional dynamics.