Pakistan says it is very close to finalizing a trade deal with the United States, possibly within a few days. However, U.S. officials have not given any timeline for when the deal might happen.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who is also Pakistan’s deputy prime minister, shared the update during a talk at the Atlantic Council in Washington, D.C. He said both sides have been holding meetings, both in-person and online. And that a committee has been formed by Pakistan’s prime minister to finalize the details. Dar added, “It’s not going to be months, not even weeks — I would say days.”
Despite Dar’s comments, the U.S. State Department’s statement after the meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio did not mention any expected date. The statement simply said both countries discussed growing trade ties and cooperation in mining and critical minerals.
The meeting also touched on regional security. Pakistan thanked the U.S., especially former President Donald Trump. And Secretary Rubio, for helping reduce tensions between Pakistan and India earlier this year. In May, a deadly militant attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir led to a brief but intense exchange of fire between the two neighbors. Trump later claimed that his talks with both sides helped bring about a ceasefire on May 10. India, however, disagreed and said the ceasefire was a direct result of talks between the two countries, without any outside help.
While the trade deal may be close, the U.S. has made no promises on timing — leaving uncertainty about when or if it will be finalized.
