US congressional delegation meets Ishaq Dar to boost Pakistan-US cooperation

A visiting U.S. Congressional delegation led by Congressmen Ryan Zinke and Michael Baumgartner called on Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar in Islamabad on Tuesday to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation in trade, investment, information technology and energy.

What did Pakistan and the US congressional delegation discuss?

Dar welcomed the delegation and highlighted the positive momentum in Pakistan-U.S. relations, emphasizing the importance of deepening cooperation in trade, investment, IT, energy and other areas of mutual interest.

The two sides also underscored the significance of sustained parliamentary exchanges in promoting mutual trust and reinforcing the longstanding partnership between the two countries.

The U.S. lawmakers acknowledged the significant contributions of the Pakistani diaspora to the American economy and society, describing the community as a vital bridge between the two nations.

What regional issues did the meeting cover?

The meeting included an exchange of views on regional and international developments. The visiting congressmen appreciated Pakistan's constructive role in promoting regional peace and stability.

Pakistan has played a central role as mediator between the U.S. and Iran, with the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding — brokered by Islamabad — providing the framework for ending the Middle East war. Dar has also invited American businesses to take advantage of investment opportunities in Pakistan, according to the Associated Press of Pakistan.

How has Pakistan-US engagement developed in recent months?

Pakistan and the U.S. have seen a significant strengthening of ties over the past year. Dar previously received a high-level U.S. delegation including Vice President JD Vance, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Islamabad for regional discussions.

He also met U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington on May 29 to review bilateral relations and expand economic and trade cooperation. The visit by the congressional delegation reflects ongoing efforts by both Islamabad and Washington to enhance engagement and broaden cooperation on issues of shared interest.