Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has successfully garnered U.S. recognition for Pakistan’s pivotal role in counterterrorism and regional diplomacy. During high-profile meetings with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Dar emphasized Pakistan’s shift toward economic diplomacy, stating that Islamabad is now pursuing “trade, not aid,” as negotiations edge closer toward finalizing a bilateral trade agreement.
In face-to-face discussions at the State Department, both leaders explored opportunities to strengthen cooperation in economic sectors—especially agriculture, investment, critical minerals, energy, technology, and AI—alongside an upcoming counterterrorism dialogue scheduled for August in Islamabad. The strategic visit also underscored Pakistan’s growing engagement in global peace efforts, including its role in stabilizing tensions in South Asia, which U.S. officials praised as integral to regional security.
Analysts and policy commentators have heralded Dar’s diplomatic outreach as a turning point in Pakistan-U.S. relations, characterizing it as a reset toward a broader and more stable partnership. The traction in talks suggests that a trade agreement could be finalized within days—not weeks—with a coordinated effort by working groups in Washington and Islamabad to fine-tune terms.
Dar’s narrative frames Pakistan as a reliable partner ready to attract U.S. investments and drive sustainable economic growth. Officials from both countries voiced mutual interest in expanding engagement through the private sector, promoting bilateral exchange in technology and resource development, and reinforcing diplomatic alignment on critical global issues.
This shift comes amid Pakistan’s broader strategy of balanced international diplomacy—deepening ties with the U.S. while continuing strategic cooperation with China. As the prospect of a trade agreement draws near, Islamabad is positioning itself firmly within a global framework of collaboration and economic resilience.
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