US Shows Renewed Commitment to Pakistan as Secretary of State Rubio Encourages Role in Iran‑Israel Peace Efforts
By Ayaz Akbar Yousafzai | June 20, 2025
In a significant development today, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio placed a call to Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, expressing strong interest in working closely with Islamabad to promote peace and stability—especially in the Middle East. The call, described as “warm and cordial,” reflected shared ambitions to strengthen bilateral relations, support peace efforts between Pakistan and India, and engage Pakistan’s influence in resolving the Iran-Israel conflict.
🔹 A Meaningful Dialogue Takes Place
On Friday afternoon, Secretary Rubio reached out to Prime Minister Sharif to discuss the evolving situation in the broader region. According to an official statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, Rubio praised Pakistan’s strong relationship with Iran, citing it as instrumental in fostering any positive diplomatic intervention. He reaffirmed the US government’s readiness to collaborate closely with Pakistan in pursuit of regional and global stability.
In response, PM Sharif extended “best wishes” to US President Donald Trump, celebrating his leadership and bipartisan role in supporting peace initiatives. Notably, he applauded Rubio’s active diplomacy, which he said had been pivotal in facilitating discussions between Pakistan and India and in fostering a cease‑fire understanding—a move that narrowly prevented conflict between two nuclear powers.
Marco Rubio Phones PM Shehbaz, Encourages Stronger Role for Pakistan in Regional Peace and Stability
By Ayaz Akbar Yousafzai | June 20, 2025
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday, expressing Washington’s eagerness to work closely with Islamabad in promoting peace and stability across the region. The conversation, described as warm and cordial, focused on strengthening bilateral ties, resolving tensions in the Middle East, and reinforcing efforts for long‑term peace between Pakistan and India.
PM Shehbaz offered best wishes for President Donald Trump and praised him for his bold and visionary leadership. He emphasized the role of Trump and Rubio in facilitating a recent ceasefire agreement between Pakistan and India, averting a potentially catastrophic conflict between the two nuclear‑armed nations.
Highlighting the significance of this development, the Prime Minister stated that President Trump’s positive remarks about Pakistan were “most encouraging” and offered hope for a more stable and peaceful South Asia. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s willingness to engage in dialogue with India on all outstanding issues, including Jammu and Kashmir, the Indus Water Treaty, trade cooperation, and counter‑terrorism.
Both leaders also expressed deep concern over the ongoing crisis between Iran and Israel, with PM Shehbaz underscoring the urgent need for a diplomatic resolution. “Pakistan is prepared to play a constructive role in any effort aimed at resolving this grave crisis,” he said, adding that the situation posed serious threats not only to the Middle East but also to global stability.
Recalling President Trump’s focus on expanding economic cooperation, PM Shehbaz expressed his government’s desire to work closely with the US across various sectors. “Pakistan and the United States can build a strong partnership in trade, investment, energy, mining, rare earth metals, and information technology,” he stated.
The two leaders also spoke about security and counter‑terrorism. PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to tackling militancy within its borders, especially threats posed by the BLA, TTP, and other terrorist groups. In turn, Secretary Rubio expressed admiration for Pakistan’s efforts and assured PM Shehbaz of full American support and cooperation in addressing these security challenges.
PM Shehbaz expressed satisfaction over the recent meeting between President Trump and Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir in Washington, describing it as a highly productive engagement. Both he and Secretary Rubio agreed that such discussions must now be followed by concrete steps across all areas of bilateral cooperation.
The Prime Minister also invited both President Trump and Secretary Rubio to visit Pakistan, stressing the need for more frequent high‑level engagements to sustain momentum in the growing relationship between the two nations. Secretary Rubio responded positively, expressing gratitude for the warm reception and reaffirming the United States’ commitment to working closely with Pakistan to advance shared interests.
In conclusion, the call reaffirmed a mutual desire to deepen collaboration and pursue peace and prosperity in a challenging global environment, with both nations looking forward to a new chapter of constructive and forward‑looking partnership.
🔹 Pakistan’s Push for South Asian Harmony
During the conversation, PM Sharif welcomed President Trump’s public endorsements of Pakistan’s role, calling them “encouraging signs” for establishing long-lasting peace in South Asia. He emphasized Pakistan’s openness to negotiate with India on critical outstanding issues such as:
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Jammu & Kashmir
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The Indus Water Treaty
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Bilateral trade
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Counter-terrorism operations
Highlighting the urgency of constructive engagement, Sharif said, “Sustainable peace between Pakistan and India can only be achieved through meaningful dialogue on all fronts.”
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🔹 Eyes on the Iran‑Israel Crisis
Another central theme of the discussion was the growing tensions between Iran and Israel, which both leaders agreed posed a potential threat to regional—if not global—security. PM Sharif conveyed Pakistan’s readiness to take on a constructive role in promoting dialogue and de-escalation in the Middle East. Rubio welcomed this stance, reinforcing the United States’ intent to collaborate with Pakistan in calming the situation.
🔹 Expanding Economic and Security Ties
Turning to bilateral relations, PM Sharif recalled President Trump’s stated focus on boosting trade. He suggested expanding cooperation between the US and Pakistan across multiple sectors:
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Trade: enhancing market access and reducing barriers
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Investment: attracting US investment in Pakistan’s growing economy
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Energy: joint ventures in cleaner energy initiatives
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Mining & Rare Earths: tapping Pakistan’s mineral potential
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Information Technology: collaboration in digital infrastructure and software development
On security and counter-terrorism, Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to counter insurgent groups such as the BLA, TTP, and others. Secretary Rubio acknowledged Islamabad’s efforts and offered full American cooperation and intelligence-sharing to combat extremism and uphold regional security.
🔹 Acknowledging Military‑Diplomatic Progress
Sharif also referenced a recent high-level meeting in Washington, where President Trump and Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, discussed enhancing strategic cooperation. He described the meeting as “cordial and productive,” emphasizing how it reinforced the bilateral partnership.
Both Sharif and Rubio underscored that these discussions must translate into tangible outcomes—a clear shift from diplomatic dialogue to actionable initiatives across defense, trade, and regional diplomacy.
🔹 Invitations for Presidential and Ministerial Visits
PM Sharif extended invitations to both President Trump and Secretary Rubio to visit Pakistan at the earliest opportunity. He emphasized that frequent interaction between top leaders would maintain momentum in strengthening Pakistan–US relations.
Rubio responded positively, thanking Sharif for the conversation and expressing eagerness to enhance cooperation in mutual domains of interest.
🔹 Shared Vision for Regional Stability
Summing up the conversation, both leaders agreed to intensify their countries’ engagement going forward:
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Rubio applauded Pakistan’s sustained efforts to uphold the Pakistan-India ceasefire agreement.
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He restated the US’s support for Pakistan’s role in mediating peace between Iran and Israel.
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He also reaffirmed America’s commitment to working “closely” with Pakistan in pursuit of global peace and stability.
🔹 Implications and Path Forward
Today’s call marks a milestone in Pakistan–US relations, signaling:
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A shared strategic vision to confront regional conflicts.
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A strong emphasis on economic cooperation across multiple sectors.
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A unified approach to improving peace prospects in volatile regions.
From the US perspective, Pakistan remains a key player in South Asian security architecture, both in mediating tensions with India and mitigating broader Middle Eastern conflicts. By pursuing open channels for dialogue, both nations hope to reinforce stability not only on their own borders but in some of the world’s most fragile regions.
Marco Rubio Telephones PM Shehbaz, Pledges Strong US-Pakistan Partnership for Peace and Stability
By Ayaz Akbar Yousafzai | June 20, 2025
In a pivotal telephone conversation on Friday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to working closely with Pakistan to foster peace and stability across the region and beyond. The call came at a critical juncture, with tensions rising in the Middle East and long-standing tensions between South Asian neighbors still simmering.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the conversation was marked by warmth and mutual respect. PM Shehbaz Sharif offered his best wishes for US President Donald Trump and commended him for his bold and visionary leadership. The premier emphasized that the strong bond between the United States and Pakistan, rooted in mutual interests and a shared desire for peace, can be a catalyst for resolving complex global and regional conflicts.
Praise for US Diplomacy
PM Shehbaz expressed profound gratitude for Secretary Rubio’s role in facilitating dialogue between Pakistan and India, highlighting the US official’s significant contribution to achieving a recent ceasefire agreement. This agreement, he said, was pivotal in averting a potentially catastrophic conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations.
He further stated, “President Trump’s positive statements about Pakistan have been deeply encouraging for the cause of a durable peace in South Asia. Such support gives both nations an opportunity to initiate meaningful dialogue and work together for the greater good of the region.”
The Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s willingness to restart dialogue with India to resolve long-standing issues, including the dispute over Jammu & Kashmir, the Indus Water Treaty, and cooperation in trade and counter-terrorism.
Pakistan’s Role in the Middle East Peace Efforts
The situation in the Middle East, especially the rising tensions between Iran and Israel, also featured prominently in the conversation. PM Shehbaz expressed deep concern over the crisis and emphasized the urgency for a “peaceful, negotiated settlement” between the parties involved.
“Pakistan is deeply worried about the humanitarian and security crisis in the Middle East. We stand ready to play a constructive role in any initiative that aims to foster peace and stability in the region,” he asserted.
Secretary Rubio, appreciating the strength of Pakistan–Iran relations, encouraged PM Shehbaz to utilize Islamabad’s close ties with Tehran to help de-escalate tensions and pave the way for dialogue.
Towards a Stronger Economic Partnership
Both leaders expressed eagerness to build upon the economic relationship between the United States and Pakistan. PM Shehbaz recalled President Trump’s focus on expanding trade links and making economic collaboration a cornerstone of bilateral relations.
He stated, “Pakistan and the United States can deepen their cooperation across a range of vital areas, including trade, investment, energy, mining, rare earth metals, and information technology. Together, we can create opportunities that benefit both nations and contribute to global economic stability.”
PM Shehbaz emphasized that a strong economic partnership would foster trust, create jobs, and unlock opportunities for investment and innovation.
Security and Counter-Terrorism Efforts
The discussion also addressed security and counter-terrorism measures. PM Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s firm resolve to eradicate the menace of terrorism across its territory, focusing especially on threats posed by outlawed groups such as the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), Tehrik‑e‑Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and other militant organizations.
He asserted, “Pakistan has suffered greatly due to terrorist activity and has made significant sacrifices in the campaign for peace. We remain fully committed to defeating terrorism in every form and ensuring stability across the region.”
In this regard, Secretary Rubio expressed deep appreciation for Pakistan’s counter‑terrorism efforts and reaffirmed the United States’ readiness to collaborate closely with Islamabad. He promised strong American support in bolstering Pakistan’s security forces and sharing vital intelligence to combat terrorist threats effectively.
Closer High‑Level Engagement
The conversation also touched upon recent meetings between senior US and Pakistani leaders, including the productive discussion between President Trump and Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir in Washington earlier this week. PM Shehbaz expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of that meeting, calling it a pivotal moment in reinforcing mutual trust and strengthening security and military cooperation between the two nations.
He asserted that the talks between President Trump and Field Marshal Asim Munir must now be translated into concrete, actionable outcomes across a range of sectors, including defense, counter‑terrorism, trade, energy, and technology.
PM Shehbaz emphasized the need for more high‑level exchanges between Pakistani and American leaders to build upon the positive momentum in bilateral relations. In this context, he reiterated his invitation to President Trump for an official visit to Pakistan, stating that it would mark a milestone in deepening ties between the two nations. The Prime Minister also extended an invitation to Secretary Rubio, urging him to visit Pakistan soon.
Marco Rubio Phones PM Shehbaz, Commits to Stronger US‑Pakistan Partnership for Peace and Stability
By Ayaz Akbar Yousafzai | June 20, 2025
Islamabad, June 20, 2025 — The United States and Pakistan reaffirmed their shared commitment to peace and stability across South Asia and the Middle East, as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke by telephone with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday. The conversation marked an important milestone in the ongoing efforts between the two nations to foster closer cooperation in resolving global and regional tensions, bolstering economic connections, and intensifying joint efforts in counter‑terrorism.
The warm and cordial call came amid rising tensions across the Middle East, including the intensification of hostilities between Iran and Israel. Against this backdrop, the United States expressed its trust in Pakistan’s unique role in facilitating dialogue due to its long‑standing and robust ties with Tehran. The Prime Minister assured the US that Pakistan was committed to leveraging its strategic relationships to aid in finding a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
Strengthening Peace Efforts Between Pakistan and India
During the conversation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep gratitude to US President Donald Trump for his bold and visionary leadership, highlighting its pivotal role in de‑escalating tensions between Pakistan and India. The Premier emphasized that recent efforts by the United States — led by Secretary Rubio — had facilitated a crucial understanding between the two nuclear‑armed nations, allowing for a ceasefire agreement and averting a potentially catastrophic conflict.
The Prime Minister said, “President Trump’s positive and constructive statements about Pakistan have strengthened our resolve to pursue peace and dialogue in South Asia. This provides a promising foundation for a durable peace between Pakistan and India — one that can only be achieved through meaningful engagement across a range of issues.”
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s willingness to initiate comprehensive dialogue with India to address long‑standing disputes, including:
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The Jammu and Kashmir conflict
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The Indus Water Treaty
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Trade and economic cooperation
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Counter‑terrorism measures
Prime Minister stated, “Pakistan is committed to pursuing dialogue and cooperation with India. We must work together to resolve these issues for the benefit of our people, ensuring long‑term peace and stability across South Asia.”
The Middle East Crisis: Seeking Peace Between Iran and Israel
The crisis between Iran and Israel emerged as another central point of discussion. The Prime Minister expressed serious concern over the escalating tensions and emphasized the urgent need for a peaceful, negotiated resolution.
He stated, “The crisis in the Middle East threatens not only the security and stability of the region but has grave implications for the rest of the world. Pakistan is ready to play a constructive role in facilitating dialogue and supporting peace efforts between Iran and Israel, drawing upon our strong and brotherly relations with Iran.”
Recognizing the deep respect and trust between Pakistan and Iran, Secretary Rubio encouraged PM to continue utilizing these connections to foster peace and stability across the Middle East. He reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to working closely with Pakistan in addressing global and regional crises.
Expanding Bilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also underscored the importance of bolstering Pakistan–US economic relations, highlighting the economic priorities laid out by President Trump. He emphasized the shared interest in expanding cooperation across a range of sectors, including:
✅ Trade and Investment – Attracting US investments in Pakistani industries.
✅ Energy and Renewable Resources – Strengthening collaboration for sustainable energy solutions.
✅ Information Technology and Innovation – Driving digital growth and connectivity.
✅ Mining and Rare Earth Metals – Exploiting mineral-rich areas in a manner beneficial to both nations.
He stated, “Pakistan and the United States have a long-standing friendship rooted in mutual interests and trust. It is time for both nations to deepen their economic cooperation across sectors that can benefit both countries and create jobs and opportunities for millions.”
Secretary Rubio responded with enthusiasm, acknowledging Pakistan’s economic potential and reaffirming the United States’ commitment to facilitating cooperation across these critical areas.
Reinforcing Commitment to Counter‑Terrorism and Regional Stability
The call also featured an in‑depth discussion on counter‑terrorism efforts. PM Shehbaz emphasized that Pakistan remained fully committed to tackling the threat posed by terrorist groups such as the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), the Tehrik‑e‑Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and other militant outfits.
He said, “Pakistan has suffered greatly from the ravages of terrorism, and we are resolute in our commitment to eradicate this menace from our land. We remain dedicated to ensuring that our soil will not be used to launch attacks across borders, and we continue to pursue robust policies that protect both national and regional security.”
In reply, Secretary Rubio expressed his deep admiration for the ongoing efforts by the Pakistani security forces. He stated, “The United States appreciates and fully supports Pakistan’s counter‑terrorism campaign. We stand ready to collaborate further, share intelligence, and work hand‑in‑hand to neutralize threats posed by terrorist organizations across the region.”
A New Chapter in US‑Pakistan Relations
PM Shehbaz also expressed satisfaction with the recent meeting between President Trump and Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir in Washington earlier this week. The Prime Minister lauded the discussions as highly productive and a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral relations Pakistan’s.
He said, “The warm and productive meeting between President Trump and Field Marshal Munir signifies a pivotal chapter in the long-standing friendship between our nations. We must now translate this dialogue into actionable steps across all areas of cooperation — from security to trade, and from counter‑terrorism to climate action.”
Both leaders reaffirmed their belief that the strong ties between Pakistan and the United States must evolve beyond words and formal meetings, focusing instead on tangible outcomes that benefit both nations and their people Pakistan’s.
Renewed Commitment to High‑Level Engagements
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also reiterated his invitation to President Trump for an official visit to Pakistan and expressed eagerness to host him at the earliest opportunity. The Prime Minister emphasized that such a visit would serve as a landmark moment for the bilateral relationship and enable both nations to deepen their cooperation across critical areas of mutual interest.
He also invited Secretary Rubio to visit Islamabad soon, stating that high‑level engagements would sustain and build upon the momentum established by recent talks Pakistan’s.
In response, Secretary Rubio expressed profound gratitude for the warm reception and confirmed that he too was looking forward to visiting Pakistan at an early date. He reaffirmed that the United States remained fully committed to working closely with Pakistan across a range of areas, including security, counter‑terrorism, economic cooperation, and regional peacebuilding Pakistan’s.
The Road Ahead: Turning Words Into Action
The conversation between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Secretary Marco Rubio reflects a pivotal moment in the US–Pakistan bilateral relationship — a time when both nations are committed to working together for peace, stability, and prosperity. The leaders underscored that their dialogue must now evolve into concrete action, focusing on:
✅ Expanding economic cooperation and investment across sectors.
✅ Enhancing counter‑terrorism efforts to eradicate terrorist threats from the region.
✅ Seeking long‑term peace between Pakistan and India through dialogue.
✅ Playing a constructive role in resolving the Iran–Israel crisis.
✅ Improving security and economic connectivity throughout South Asia and the Middle East.
Conclusion: A Stronger US–Pakistan Bond for Peace and Prosperity
With this high‑level conversation between PM Shehbaz Sharif and Secretary Marco Rubio, both nations have reaffirmed their dedication to nurturing their long‑standing partnership. As the United States and Pakistan continue to build trust and deepen cooperation across sectors ranging from counter‑terrorism and regional peacebuilding to trade and investment, this evolving relationship promises to foster a more stable and prosperous future for both countries and their people Pakistan’s.
Through ongoing dialogue, mutual respect, and collaborative action, Pakistan and the US have an unprecedented opportunity to stand together as vital contributors to global peace, stability, and economic growth — a shared vision that can serve as a beacon of hope for the wider world Pakistan’s.
A New Chapter for US‑Pakistan Relations
Thanking PM Shehbaz for accepting the call, Secretary Rubio expressed his desire to broaden and deepen cooperation between the United States and Pakistan. He emphasized the United States’ recognition of Pakistan’s role in upholding peace and security in the region and its ongoing efforts to maintain the ceasefire understanding with India Pakistan’s.
Rubio also reiterated the United States’ commitment to working closely with Pakistan across areas of mutual interest, including counter‑terrorism, economic cooperation, climate change, and the promotion of regional stability. He further stated, “Pakistan’s role in facilitating peace in its neighborhood is vital, and the United States deeply appreciates and encourages such efforts.”
Conclusion
The conversation between PM Shehbaz Sharif and Secretary Marco Rubio underscored the deep-rooted ties between the United States and Pakistan. Against the backdrop of rising tensions in the Middle East and lingering tensions in South Asia, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and peacebuilding.
US Secretary Marco Rubio and PM Shehbaz Sharif discuss peace efforts with Iran, counter‑terrorism, and boosting US–Pakistan trade and cooperation.
Through enhanced high‑level engagement, closer economic and security ties, and a collaborative approach to crisis resolution, the United States and Pakistan aim to write a new chapter in their bilateral relations — one built upon mutual trust, shared interests, and a common vision for a peaceful and prosperous future for the region and the world.Marco Rubio and PM Shehbaz Discuss Peace Efforts, Trade, and Counter‑Terrorism to Strengthen US–Pakistan Relations
What Comes Next?
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Diplomatic outreach: Pakistan is expected to use its ties with Iran to support US mediation in the Middle East.
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High-level visits: Potential travel by President Trump and Secretary Rubio to Pakistan in coming months Pakistan’s.
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Concrete cooperation: New agreements regarding counter‑terrorism, bilateral trade, and strategic investments Pakistan’s.
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Ongoing dialogue: Sustained high-level talks designed to maintain momentum in joint peace-building efforts Pakistan’s.
🔹 Bottom Line
Tuesday’s conversation between Secretary Rubio and PM Shehbaz Sharif highlights a mutual desire to transition from diplomatic discussions to coordinated, multi-faceted action. By reinforcing longstanding ties and focusing on cooperation in trade, security, and diplomacy, both Pakistan and the US are aiming to deliver breakthroughs in both regional peace and global stability.
