Shehbaz Sharif Washington Visit: Peace Talks, Mineral Deals and Global Diplomacy
Shehbaz Sharif Washington visit placed Pakistan at the center of global diplomacy this week. He attended the first session of the US-led Board of Peace in Washington, DC. During the summit, he met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and several world leaders. The talks focused on Gaza reconstruction, regional stability, and economic growth. He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Palestinian self-determination and a sovereign state.
Gaza Peace and Global Engagement
At the summit, Shehbaz Sharif met King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain and President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan. He also held talks with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, and President Joko Widodo of Indonesia. These meetings strengthened Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach. They also highlighted shared concerns about regional peace.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump launched the Board of Peace to manage Gaza’s reconstruction. The initiative includes a proposed $70 billion fund. In addition, it plans to deploy an International Stabilisation Force under UN Security Council Resolution 2803. However, Islamabad will review any role in the force with caution. Officials want firm guarantees that it will serve strictly as a peacekeeping mission. Therefore, Pakistan seeks clarity before making commitments.
Strategic Minerals and Trade Expansion
On the economic front, Shehbaz Sharif met Secretary Rubio to discuss trade and investment. They explored cooperation in critical minerals and energy development. For example, both sides discussed fast-tracking US investment in the Reko Diq mining project. Pakistan aims to become a key supplier in global mineral supply chains.
President Trump also praised Pakistan’s leadership for easing tensions with India. He credited strong diplomacy for preventing further escalation. As a result, the visit marked a shift toward strategic trade and partnership. Overall, the trip signaled Pakistan’s growing role in peacebuilding and economic cooperation.
