ISLAMABAD(The COW News Digital ) In a significant diplomatic exchange, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio commended Pakistan’s efforts in promoting regional peace and supporting the recent ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, as he held a telephonic conversation with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. During the call, Rubio emphasized that Pakistan’s close ties with Iran position it as a key player in the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and Iran. He highlighted that Pakistan can play a constructive role in mediating for peace in the region.
The conversation, which was described as cordial by the Prime Minister’s Office, touched upon a range of critical regional and global issues. Prime Minister Sharif expressed appreciation for U.S. President Donald Trump’s leadership, especially in averting the risk of war between Pakistan and India, and lauded the U.S. Secretary’s diplomatic efforts, which contributed to the ceasefire agreement.
The Pakistani Prime Minister also conveyed his positive sentiments toward President Trump’s statements about Pakistan, considering them a hopeful sign for sustainable peace in South Asia. He reiterated that lasting peace in the region could only be achieved through meaningful dialogue that addresses core issues, including Jammu and Kashmir, the Indus Waters Treaty, trade, and counter-terrorism initiatives.
Sharif expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, which have now become a global security threat. He stressed the importance of diplomatic negotiations and dialogue as the only viable solution to the Middle East crisis. The Prime Minister reiterated that Pakistan is ready to play a constructive role in facilitating peace efforts in the region, underscoring the significance of multilateral diplomatic initiatives.
Furthermore, the Pakistani leader emphasized the potential for deeper trade cooperation between Pakistan and the U.S., particularly in sectors such as energy, minerals, rare earth metals, and information technology. He called for a mutually beneficial trade framework, in line with President Trump’s focus on economic partnerships.
During the call, Prime Minister Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to eliminating terrorism from its soil, with a special focus on combating groups like the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and other terrorist factions. He underscored that Pakistan would continue its decisive actions against such elements.
U.S. Secretary of State Rubio expressed strong support for Pakistan’s anti-terrorism efforts, pledging continued American assistance in these initiatives. He also acknowledged the growing importance of Pakistan-U.S. relations and called for sustained high-level engagement between the two nations to build on recent positive developments.
Prime Minister Sharif took the opportunity to refer to the productive discussions between the U.S. President and Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir in Washington, noting that both countries need to translate their diplomatic talks into concrete actions. He reiterated his invitation to President Trump to visit Pakistan, expressing eagerness for a direct meeting to further strengthen bilateral ties.
