WASHINGTON – The United States has formally thanked Pakistan for its endorsement of President Donald Trump’s peace plan for Gaza and its participation in the newly established Board of Peace (BoP). The acknowledgment came during a high-level meeting in Washington between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Diplomatic Appreciation and Strategic Dialogue
In a post on social media platform X, Secretary Rubio shared a photograph with PM Shehbaz and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. He stated that the meeting served to appreciate “Pakistan’s ongoing support of @POTUS’s Peace Plan for Gaza and for joining the Board of Peace.”
Beyond the Gaza issue, the discussions underscored the broader strategic partnership. “In our meeting, we discussed the importance of our strategic relationship on critical minerals development and counterterrorism,” Rubio added, pointing to key areas of bilateral cooperation.
Pakistan’s Affirmation of Partnership
Responding to the US diplomat, DPM Ishaq Dar described the talks as productive. In his own statement, Dar said Pakistan values its longstanding ties with the United States and appreciates discussions on advancing peace, enhancing counterterrorism cooperation, and expanding economic and trade relations.
“Islamabad looks forward to further strengthening its strategic partnership with Washington across all areas of shared interest,” Dar affirmed.
Historic Inaugural Board of Peace Meeting
The diplomatic exchange followed the inaugural meeting of the Trump-led Board of Peace in Washington, which PM Shehbaz attended alongside other world leaders. Addressing the assembly, the Prime Minister described his participation as an honor and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to lasting peace in Gaza.
“The pursuit of sustainable peace in Gaza remains a shared mission,” PM Shehbaz said, calling the day a “golden chapter in history” for Middle East peace efforts. He expressed hope that the initiative would achieve long-term stability in the war-torn region.
President Trump, in his address, praised PM Shehbaz, calling him a likable leader, and also commended Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir as a “tough, serious fighter.”
Warm Reception and Global Stature
Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar noted that Pakistan received an “extraordinary reception” at the BoP meeting. In a video message, he said President Trump’s appreciation for Pakistan’s role in world peace has elevated the country’s prestige globally.
“Due to a successful foreign policy, Pakistan is emerging as an important and effective player on the global stage,” the minister stated.
The Board of Peace, first proposed by President Trump last September as part of his plan to end the Gaza war, has seen its mandate expanded to address other global conflicts.
Premier Engages World Leaders on Sidelines
On the sidelines of the event, PM Shehbaz held cordial interactions with several heads of state, including a notably warm exchange with President Trump that featured a handshake and a hug. The Premier also met with the King of Bahrain, and the Presidents of Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Indonesia.
These conversations covered important global and regional issues, marked by a spirit of close friendship. Pakistan’s inclusion in the Board of Peace is seen as a reflection of its growing diplomatic success and its contributions to peace initiatives in Gaza and beyond.
