ISLAMABAD – Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephonic conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday, with both sides discussing bilateral cooperation and regional developments, Pakistan’s foreign ministry said, signaling a continued thaw in ties between Islamabad and Washington.
The call comes amid growing diplomatic engagement between the two countries, which have seen a noticeable improvement in relations following a US-brokered ceasefire between Pakistan and India in May. The four-day conflict had resulted in over 70 casualties on both sides of the Line of Control. In a symbolic gesture the following month, US President Donald Trump hosted Pakistan’s army chief for a rare luncheon at the White House, where discussions reportedly included the Iran-Israel conflict and regional security.
Just last week, Islamabad announced the conclusion of what it called a “landmark” trade agreement with Washington, expected to pave the way for tariff reductions and stronger economic ties. President Trump also unveiled plans for a new partnership aimed at developing Pakistan’s oil reserves—an initiative being hailed in Islamabad as a breakthrough in strategic economic cooperation.
“The two leaders discussed a range of bilateral matters and exchanged views on current regional and international issues,” the Foreign Office said in a statement regarding the Dar-Rubio call. “Both sides agreed to remain in contact and continue cooperation on areas of mutual interest.”
Analysts view this renewed momentum as a potential diplomatic reset following years of disengagement, particularly after the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan. Pakistan’s ties with Washington had gradually cooled during that period, with fewer high-level exchanges between the two countries.
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However, trade and economic cooperation remain key pillars of the relationship. The United States is Pakistan’s largest export destination, with exports reaching $5.44 billion in the 2023–2024 fiscal year. From July 2024 to February 2025, Pakistani exports to the US saw a 10 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
In recent months, Islamabad has intensified efforts to strengthen economic and trade relations not only with the US but also with regional partners. This push for foreign investment comes amid a prolonged macroeconomic crisis, as Pakistan seeks external support to stabilize its economy and spur long-term growth.