US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has praised Pakistan for its continued role in mediating with Iran and promoting regional peace. He made these remarks during a meeting with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Washington, the US State Department confirmed on Friday.
The two sides discussed ways to strengthen bilateral ties, with a focus on counterterrorism cooperation, economic collaboration, and regional diplomacy. Secretary Rubio specifically appreciated Pakistan’s support in talks involving Iran, and its broader efforts to reduce tensions across the region.
They also addressed the upcoming US-Pakistan Counterterrorism Dialogue, set to take place in Islamabad this August. Discussions included joint strategies to counter ISIS-K and build long-term stability. Rubio stressed the importance of expanding trade and exploring cooperation in critical minerals and mining.
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, Dar also acknowledged the roles of Rubio and former US President Donald Trump in helping de-escalate tensions between Pakistan and India. He urged renewed global focus on resolving the Kashmir dispute through UN resolutions and stressed it remains central to lasting peace in South Asia.
Dar briefed the US side on Pakistan’s role at the UN Security Council, highlighting its leadership in passing Resolution 2788 on peaceful conflict resolution. He also proposed deeper ties in technology, AI, crypto, and private-sector investments, while reaffirming Pakistan’s readiness to contribute to global peacebuilding and address Middle East crises, including the Gaza humanitarian emergency.