Islamabad, 3 January 2024 (TDI): Interim Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani held a crucial meeting with US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome on 2 January 2024, emphasizing the need for both nations to “continue to build on the recent exchanges and the momentum gained in bilateral ties.”
In a statement released by the Foreign Office, it was disclosed that the discussions between Foreign Minister Jilani and Ambassador Blome centered on “some major aspects of bilateral relations,” with a specific focus on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir’s recent visit to the United States.
Simultaneously, a separate statement issued by the US Mission Acting Spokesperson reported that the meeting touched upon a “wide range of important bilateral issues.”
The discussions included topics such as expanded diplomatic engagement, the safe and efficient processing of Afghan citizens eligible for resettlement in the United States, and other matters of mutual interest.
Both parties expressed their commitment to fostering a constructive and cooperative relationship, promoting peace and stability in the region. The meeting between FM Jilani and Ambassador Blome signifies the ongoing efforts to enhance diplomatic ties and collaborative initiatives for the mutual benefit of Pakistan and the United States.
The meeting follows COAS Asim Munir’s inaugural visit to the United States in December 2023, during which he engaged with key political and military figures, including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The discussions aimed to explore potential areas of bilateral and regional cooperation, further strengthening the ties between the two nations.
Last month, Pakistan experienced consecutive visits from senior US officials, characterized by the foreign office as integral to bilateral consultations addressing a spectrum of issues.