In a recent telephonic conversation on Monday, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari discussed various issues of mutual interest. They touched upon Pakistan’s economy outlook and the challenges concerning Afghanistan. Secretary Blinken reaffirmed a productive US-Pakistan partnership, emphasizing the US’s commitment to continued cooperation in counterterrorism efforts, given the significant impact of terrorist attacks on the Pakistani people.
The two leaders also discussed the destabilizing effects of Russia’s war against Ukraine and their shared interest in a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. The call came after US Central Command (Centcom) chief, General Michael Erik Kurilla, met with Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir in Rawalpindi to discuss the regional security situation and defense cooperation.
Secretary Blinken emphasized the US’s steadfast commitment to the people of Pakistan, highlighting the importance of Pakistan’s economic success as a top priority for the US. He welcomed the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) approval of a program to support Pakistan and encouraged further reforms to promote economic recovery and prosperity. The US also emphasized the significance of democratic principles and respect for the rule of law in guiding the partnership between the two nations.
In another development, the Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Hissein Brahim Taha, commended Pakistan’s efforts to combat and counter Islamophobia, praising its leading role at the UN in this regard. This commendation came after incidents of the desecration of the Holy Quran in European countries. The OIC Secretary General appreciated the urgency with which Pakistan and the OIC are addressing these reprehensible acts.
Additionally, Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari held a telephonic conversation with European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell. During the call, Bilawal expressed concerns over the expiry of the Black Sea Grain Initiative (BSGI), emphasizing that it could have adverse impacts on food inflation and food security-related challenges in developing countries like Pakistan. Bilawal requested Borrell’s assistance in finding a solution to renew the BSGI, and both leaders agreed to remain engaged on this issue and other matters of mutual interest.