Rubio, Dar discuss counterterrorism, regional stability in key bilateral meeting: US State Dept

WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to discuss regional security, counterterrorism cooperation, and expanding bilateral trade, according to a statement by State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce on Saturday.

The meeting, which took place on the sidelines of a diplomatic forum, focused on strengthening bilateral counterterrorism cooperation, with particular emphasis on threats posed by ISIS-Khorasan. The two leaders also exchanged views on preparations for the upcoming US-Pakistan Counterterrorism Dialogue, scheduled to be held in Islamabad next month.

Secretary Rubio appreciated Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability and its constructive role in efforts to mediate dialogue with Iran, the spokesperson said. He also underscored the importance of expanding mutually beneficial trade ties, particularly by exploring new avenues of cooperation in critical minerals and mining sectors.

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This was the first in-person meeting, where they discussed a broad spectrum of issues including regional peace, counterterrorism, and bilateral cooperation. Dar emphasised that Pakistan and the United States share a “synergy of views and interests” in achieving stability across South Asia, while both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties and pursuing organised collaboration in key sectors. The discussion also touched upon efforts to counter threats from militant groups, as well as potential partnerships in trade, critical minerals, and energy. The meeting follows multiple phone conversations between the two leaders in the past, particularly during moments of tension between Pakistan and India, and signals a renewed focus on strategic engagement between the two nations.