Washington (Web Desk): In a notable gesture underscoring growing bilateral ties, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended his felicitations to Pakistan on the occasion of its Independence Day.
Rubio expressed his “deep” appreciation for Pakistan’s cooperation in areas such as counterterrorism and trade, and highlighted Washington’s desire to deepen collaboration with Islamabad in strategic economic sectors.
“On behalf of the United States, I extend our warm congratulations to the people of Pakistan as they celebrate their Independence Day on August 14,” said the top US diplomat in a statement.
He also emphasized, “We look forward to exploring new areas of economic cooperation, including critical minerals and hydrocarbons, and fostering dynamic business partnerships which will promote a prosperous future for Americans and Pakistanis.”
This message comes at a time when diplomatic ties between the two nations appear to be strengthening. Just days earlier, on August 11, the United States formally categorized the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its affiliate, the Majeed Brigade, as foreign terrorist organizations.
The announcement coincided with a visit to the US by Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir—his second official trip to Washington.
Islamabad has long maintained that the BLA has received backing from India and has been behind a series of violent incidents inside Pakistan, causing significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure.
The American designation of the group as a terrorist organization aligns with Pakistan's longstanding concerns and reflects a convergence in security priorities.
Alongside these developments, Washington has committed to investing in Pakistan’s energy and mining industries. Under a newly established trade agreement, the US will assist in developing Pakistan’s oil resources and help reduce tariffs for Pakistani exports.
These moves are seen as part of a broader economic engagement strategy aimed at unlocking new opportunities in untapped sectors.
Recently, officials from both countries also convened in Islamabad for a counterterrorism dialogue, signaling sustained efforts toward security cooperation.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly reiterated his approach of leveraging trade mechanisms to help ease tensions between India and Pakistan, although Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently rejected any third-party involvement in regional matters.