Dar, Rubio discuss trade tariffs in phone call

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio late Monday, during which they discussed bilateral issues, including trade tariffs.

According to a statement issued by the Foreign Ministry, following their productive meeting last Friday in Washington DC, the two leaders continued their discussions on vital bilateral matters, including trade tariffs, which are pivotal to enhancing economic ties between Pakistan and the United States.

They also addressed pressing regional and global concerns of mutual interest, reflecting the ongoing cooperation between the two nations, the statement added.

Last week, Dar held talks with Rubio in Washington in their first face-to-face meeting at the State Department, following several telephonic conversations.

During meeting, he told the US secretary of state that Pakistan sought an “expanded and stable” bilateral relationship with Washington, highlighting the “strong convergences” between the two sides on several issues.

A statement issued by the Foreign Office said that upon his arrival at the State Department, Dar was received by senior US officials. Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Rizwan Saeed Sheikh accompanied him during the visit. Senior officials from both sides also joined the delegation-level talks.

The discussions focused on bilateral relations and prospects for cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, investment, agriculture, technology, and minerals.

Read More: Dar seeks 'stable relationship' with US

Both sides reviewed the progress in the ongoing Pakistan-US trade dialogue, expressing optimism over positive developments. Dar highlighted Pakistan as an attractive destination for US businesses and investors.

On regional security, the leaders discussed counterterrorism cooperation and broader peace efforts. Dar lauded President Donald Trump and the US leadership for their efforts to promote global peace, particularly appreciating the President’s role amid recent Pakistan-India tensions.

Secretary Rubio acknowledged Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and appreciated its positive role in promoting regional and global peace.

Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s desire for expanded and stable bilateral relations, underscoring that there is a strong convergence of views and shared interests between the two countries on regional peace and stability. He also appreciated the role of the Pakistani-American community as a “bridge” between the two nations.