In the first high-level political engagement with the new US administration, Pakistan pushed forward its desire for a "comprehensive partnership" with the United States that includes an economic partnership between the two nations, reported Dawn.

On Friday evening, new US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken dialed up Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Muhammad Qureshi and discussed bilateral and regional issues. Significantly, Blinken forcefully raised the issue of  American journalist Daniel Pearl's murder case and tweeted about the same later.

Qureshi pushed for forging a “comprehensive partnership” with the US, based on “convergence of interests” on a whole range of issues. He also projected the new vision of his country of forming economic partnerships, building a peaceful neighborhood, and enhancing regional connectivity 

Earlier, during a conference at Wilson Centre in Washington, Moeed Yousuf, the special assistant to Pakistan’s Prime Minister on national security, also said that his country wanted a relationship with the US that wasn’t “hyphenated or clouded” by the US’ regional security interest. Yousuf, too, expressed the desire for establishing an economic partnership.

During the conversation with Blinken, Qureshi noted that the necessity of reducing violence in Afghanistan, and for a peaceful inclusive political settlement to end the conflict there.

A negotiated political settlement in Afghanistan is one of the convergence areas for both countries, he said.

Since October 2018, Pakistan has played a significant role, especially in bringing the Taliban to the negotiation table. The negotiation between the two parties resulted in the landmark US-Taliban agreement signed on 29 February last year.

Experts believe that Pakistan remains a key player to ensure a final political agreement between the Taliban and the Afghan government. Also, the US needs good offices of Pakistan for a safe, and smooth exit from Afghanistan.  

During the call, Qureshi mentioned the immense sacrifice of his people in its fight against terrorism. Blinken also acknowledged the contribution, a statement from the Pakistan foreign ministry stated.

A statement released by the US State Department said both sides discussed “the importance of continued US-Pakistan cooperation on the Afghan peace process, support for regional stability, and potential to expand our trade and commercial ties.”

Interestingly, Blinken’s call to Qureshi came minutes after he spoke with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.