Secretary Blinken’s Call with Pakistani Foreign Minister Bhutto Zardari

The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke by phone with Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari today to reaffirm a productive U.S.-Pakistan partnership.

Secretary Blinken underscored the United States’ steadfast commitment to the people of Pakistan, highlighting that the economic success of Pakistan remains a top priority for the United States.  The Secretary noted that the United States will continue to engage with Pakistan through technical and development initiatives and through our robust trade and investment ties. He also welcomed the International Monetary Fund’s approval of a program to support Pakistan and encouraged continued reforms to promote economic recovery and prosperity. Secretary Blinken stressed that democratic principles and respect for the rule of law are central to the U.S.-Pakistan relationship and these values will continue to guide this partnership forward. The Secretary noted the Pakistani people have suffered tremendously from terrorist attacks and affirmed the United States’ commitment to continued partnership with Pakistan on counterterrorism. The Secretary and Foreign Minister also discussed the destabilizing effects of Russia’s war against Ukraine as well as the United States and Pakistan’s shared interest in a peaceful and stable Afghanistan.