Islamabad, 7 July 2022 (TDI): US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken called the Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, on Wednesday 6 July.
During the phone call, Secretary Blinkon congratulated Foreign Minster Bilawal on the assumption of his office. He expressed the desire to continue strengthening mutually beneficial Pakistan-US bilateral relations.
The Secretary welcomed the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and Pakistan.
FM @BBhuttoZardari received a phone call from @SecBlinken, today.
➖Reiterated mutual commitment to deepen Pak-US ties marking #PakUSAt75
➖Looked forward to frequent exchange of high-level visits
➖Requested to ease issuance of visas for Pakistani nationals.🇵🇰🤝🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/vBGQgAGGC9
— Spokesperson 🇵🇰 MoFA (@ForeignOfficePk) July 6, 2022
Moreover, he reaffirmed the joint goals for enhancing U.S.-Pakistan bilateral partnerships on economic stability, climate, and health.
Blinken and Zardari also spoke about the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. The devastating effects of Putin’s unprovoked war on Ukraine and subsequently, the food security in Pakistan and worldwide also came under discussion.
Both sides also share thoughts on regional stability, and commercial and people-to-people ties.
Remarks of Foreign Minister
Foreign Minister Bilawal underscored that Pakistan and the United States have a longstanding broad-based relationship.
He added that constructive and sustained engagement between the two countries on the basis of mutual respect and mutual interest was vital to promote peace, development, and security in the region and beyond.
The Foreign Minister reiterated that Pakistan’s vision is focused on human development, regional connectivity, and a peaceful neighborhood.
It was the second interaction between Blinken and Zardari. Previously, they spoke in May as Washington and Islamabad began efforts to strengthen ties.
Secretary Blinken invited Pakistan, to the Second Global COVID Summit which will take place virtually, later this month.
Secretary of State also extended an invitation, for Pakistan’s participation in the Ministerial meeting on Global Food Security to be held in New York on 18 May 2022.
The Foreign Minister and the Secretary of State agreed to remain in contact and enhance engagement on regional and global issues of mutual interest.
Foreign Minister had previously called Chairperson of Congressional Pakistan Caucus Sheila Jackson and Chairman of Committee Congressman Adam Smith.
