Islamabad [Pakistan]: In a significant diplomatic development, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar held a telephonic conversation on Monday, focusing on bilateral ties, regional security, and the US military equipment left in Afghanistan following the 2021 withdrawal.
Addressing Afghanistan’s Legacy
According to a statement from Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Secretary Rubio agreed on the need to resolve the issue of US military hardware left behind in Afghanistan after the complete US withdrawal in August 2021, marking the end of a 20-year military presence.
“The two leaders also discussed the situation in Afghanistan. Secretary Rubio agreed on the need to resolve the issue of US Military equipment left behind in Afghanistan,” the statement noted.
Expanding Cooperation: Trade, Investment, and Counterterrorism
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, and counterterrorism. Deputy PM Dar underscored Pakistan’s intent to deepen its strategic partnership with the United States.
Rubio emphasized trade and economic collaboration—particularly in critical minerals—as key pillars of future relations.
“Cooperation in economy and trade would be the hallmark of future relations between the two countries,” Rubio stated.
Terrorism and Law Enforcement Cooperation
Secretary Rubio also expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s assistance in arresting and transferring ISIS-K operative Mohammad Sharifullah to the United States, as confirmed by US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce.
“Secretary Rubio thanked Pakistan for the arrest and transfer of ISIS-K operative Mohammad Sharifullah… both sides highlighted the importance of continued counterterrorism cooperation,” Bruce stated.
Other critical topics included law enforcement coordination, illegal immigration, and reciprocal tariffs affecting Pakistan’s trade with the US.
UN Collaboration and Global Challenges
Looking ahead, both leaders conveyed enthusiasm for greater collaboration on global issues as Pakistan begins its two-year term as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council (effective January 1, 2025).