AIP Wire Report, Washington DC.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Washington, DC, reaffirming bilateral cooperation on regional peace, counterterrorism, and economic development, according to a statement released by the US State Department.
The meeting highlighted Pakistan’s support for President Donald Trump’s proposed Peace Plan for Gaza, with Secretary Rubio thanking Islamabad for its engagement and for participating as a founding member in the inaugural session of the Board of Peace initiative. The exchange underscored Washington’s efforts to mobilize international backing for diplomatic efforts related to the Middle East conflict.
Secretary Rubio also conveyed condolences over the recent security incidents in Pakistan, including the January 31 attacks in Balochistan and the February 6 bombing in Islamabad. He reiterated the importance of continued US–Pakistan cooperation in counterterrorism efforts, signaling that security collaboration remains a central pillar of the bilateral relationship.
In addition to security matters, discussions extended to economic and strategic sectors. The Secretary welcomed Pakistan’s participation in the recent Critical Minerals Ministerial in Washington, reflecting growing US interest in diversifying global supply chains and strengthening partnerships in the minerals and energy sectors. Officials explored opportunities for cooperation in critical minerals development, energy infrastructure, and the expansion of commercial investment by American companies in Pakistan.
The meeting comes at a time when both countries are seeking to recalibrate ties, with a focus on pragmatic engagement in areas of shared interest. While security cooperation continues to frame much of the relationship, economic connectivity and energy collaboration appear to be gaining greater prominence in bilateral discussions.
Further details of the talks are expected to emerge through official briefings in Islamabad, with Pakistani media outlets indicating that economic and regional stability issues featured prominently in the discussions.
