In a significant development signaling growing diplomatic warmth and economic cooperation, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held his second telephone call in a week with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The call, which followed Dar’s recent high-level visit to Washington, underscores the increasing depth of Pakistan–US bilateral relations.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation Through Regular Engagement
The Foreign Office of Pakistan confirmed the call through an official statement on X (formerly Twitter), noting that both sides discussed a wide range of bilateral matters and exchanged views on regional and international issues.
The FO added, Both sides agreed to remain in contact and continue cooperation on areas of mutual interest.
This latest conversation comes just days after the two top diplomats’ initial call, which also covered tariffs, economic relations, and broader strategic cooperation. The frequency and warmth of these interactions reflect a renewed commitment to reviving trust and collaboration between Islamabad and Washington.
Diplomatic Thaw After Years of Tension
Relations between Pakistan and the United States have seen a noticeable improvement after years of diplomatic stagnation. The current momentum has been bolstered by a series of high-profile engagements, including a historic reception of Field Marshal Asim Munir by US President Donald Trump at the White House last month.
This diplomatic thaw has now translated into concrete action, including a major trade agreement focused on tariff reductions and joint development of oil reserves—two areas with significant long-term economic implications.
Major Economic Breakthrough: Trade and Oil Agreement Signed
The landmark trade agreement between Pakistan and the United States was officially announced shortly after the second Dar–Rubio call. According to the Ministry of Finance, the agreement was finalized during a key meeting between Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and senior US officials, including the US Secretary of Commerce and the US Trade Representative.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to the US Rizwan Saeed Sheikh and Commerce Secretary Jawad Paul were also present at the meeting, which laid the foundation for a new phase of economic cooperation.
The official statement outlined the key objectives of the agreement:
- Reduction of tariffs, particularly on Pakistani exports to the US
- Improved market access for Pakistani businesses
- Attracting US investment into Pakistan
- Enhanced cooperation in energy, trade, and strategic sectors
President Donald Trump hailed the agreement in a social media post, stating:
We have just concluded a deal with Pakistan, whereby Pakistan and the United States will work together on developing their massive oil reserves. We are in the process of choosing the oil company that will lead this partnership. Who knows, maybe they’ll be selling oil to India someday!
This agreement marks a turning point in bilateral trade relations. In 2024, US–Pakistan total goods trade reached an estimated $7.3 billion, up from $6.9 billion in 2023. The US trade deficit with Pakistan increased by 5.2%, reaching $3 billion, according to the Office of the US Trade Representative.
Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50, spoke with U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio @SecRubio.
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) August 4, 2025
The two leaders discussed a range of bilateral matters and exchanged views on current regional & international issues. Both sides agreed to… pic.twitter.com/tHwEI15LJ5
Commitment to Peace and Counterterrorism Cooperation
In their earlier meeting on July 25, 2025, held at the US State Department, Secretary Marco Rubio acknowledged Pakistan’s unmatched sacrifices in the global war on terror. He commended Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting global and regional peace.
The delegation-level meeting included senior officials from both sides and addressed a wide array of strategic and economic topics. These included:
- Bilateral trade and investment opportunities
- Counterterrorism and defense cooperation
- Regional peace and stability, particularly in South Asia
- Energy collaboration and infrastructure development
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to shared strategic goals and agreed to deepen cooperation in key sectors, from security to commerce.
Praise for Trump’s Role in De-escalating Pakistan–India Tensions
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also expressed appreciation for President Trump’s efforts to de-escalate tensions between Pakistan and India. Calling Trump’s diplomatic role “commendable,” Dar emphasized Pakistan’s desire for peaceful and stable relations in the region, supported by robust US–Pakistan engagement.
A New Chapter in US–Pakistan Relations
This growing synergy between Islamabad and Washington represents a new chapter in the US–Pakistan strategic partnership. The recent high-level interactions, trade agreements, and collaborative energy initiatives highlight the commitment of both nations to long-term economic development, peace-building, and regional cooperation.
As both governments pledge to remain in regular contact and continue cooperation, the future of Pakistan–US relations looks promising—anchored in mutual respect, strategic alignment, and shared prosperity.
