Pakistan has embarked on a significant shift in its international posture. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington marks the first face-to-face encounter between the two ministers in nine years. Rubio acknowledged Pakistan’s critical role in counterterrorism and regional stability, while Dar promoted Pakistan as an attractive destination for trade and investment, especially in agriculture, technology, and critical minerals.
The diplomatic thaw continues as Islamabad expressed desire for the “strongest relations with the United States” despite its longstanding “iron-clad” alliance with China. Dar emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to both partnerships, seeking enhanced economic and strategic cooperation with Washington while maintaining Beijing ties.
Key to the improved U.S.–Pakistani ties is the potential bilateral trade deal, which Dar indicated could be finalized within days. Talks have focused on reducing reciprocal tariffs and fostering cooperation in mining, critical minerals, and energy sectors. While Pakistan faces a 29% tariff on U.S. exports, discussions are optimistic about reaching an agreement soon.
Regionally, Pakistan and Bangladesh have agreed in principle on visa-free access for diplomatic and official passport holders, signaling a meaningful rapprochement after decades of strained relations since Bangladesh’s independence. A joint committee will oversee security and implementation, although no official launch date has been confirmed.
Another milestone is the U.K. lifting its five-year ban on Pakistani airlines, allowing carriers to reapply for UK routes amid Islamabad’s push to privatize PIA. The ban had followed investigations into pilot licensing and safety standards—a step towards normalizing aviation ties with Europe.
In the broader diplomatic arena, Pakistan-led resolutions at the U.N. Security Council, advocating peaceful dispute resolution, reflect Islamabad’s increased involvement in global governance. The U.N. Secretary-General underscored the urgency of multilateral diplomacy amid ongoing crises in Gaza, Ukraine, and SudaN.
China continues to underscore its support, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi urging strengthened protection for Chinese nationals amid security concerns in Pakistan, especially those working on Belt and Road projects. This diplomatic reaffirmation followed a visit by Pakistan’s army chief to Beijing, underscoring the depth of the China–Pakistan strategic partnership
