Visit Comes Amid US-Iran Tensions
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi arrived in Washington on Thursday evening as Pakistan continued diplomatic efforts linked to rising tensions between the United States and Iran.
His visit is being seen as important because of Pakistan’s recent contacts with regional and international officials. Islamabad is trying to support communication between Washington and Tehran at a time when the diplomatic process remains uncertain.
Before reaching Washington, Naqvi represented Pakistan at the Fifth United Nations Chiefs of Police Summit in New York. The event brought together interior ministers, police chiefs and senior law enforcement officials from different countries to discuss peace, security and cooperation against transnational crime.
The latest diplomatic efforts come after months of heightened tensions in the Middle East. Earlier this year, the region witnessed military exchanges and strikes involving the United States and Israel against Iranian targets.
Pakistan, US Begin Fresh Economic Engagement
Naqvi’s arrival also comes as Pakistan and the United States begin a new round of negotiations focused on expanding bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
Officials say both sides are looking at ways to strengthen economic ties and explore new areas of partnership. The talks are expected to cover trade, investment and wider cooperation between the two countries.
Meanwhile, US officials said diplomatic channels with Iran remain active. Washington is trying to manage tensions while keeping its military options open if the situation worsens.
A US official said the United States has used military pressure while also allowing pauses for diplomacy. Officials added that preparations for possible military action continue as a precaution, but diplomacy is currently being given priority.
US officials also rejected reports of fresh strikes, saying no new military action had taken place. However, they acknowledged that the situation remains fluid.
The USS Abraham Lincoln, currently deployed in the Arabian Sea, carried out readiness activities on Thursday. These included aircraft preparations and training exercises. US officials said such activities are meant to maintain operational readiness during regional uncertainty.
Naqvi Holds Talks With Bangladeshi Counterpart
During his stay in New York, Mohsin Naqvi also met Bangladesh’s Interior Minister Salahuddin Ahmed.
According to Pakistan’s Interior Ministry, both ministers agreed to enhance cooperation in fighting cybercrime and online fraud. They also discussed training and exchange programmes for police officers.
The two sides also reviewed the US-Iran conflict and the changing security situation in the Middle East. The ministry said the Bangladeshi minister praised Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting peace in the region.
Naqvi said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir had played an important role in efforts to maintain regional peace.
He added that Pakistan and Bangladesh should use new opportunities to further improve bilateral relations.
On the sidelines of the UN summit, Naqvi also met United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. According to officials, Guterres appreciated Pakistan’s efforts for peace.
Naqvi also held separate meetings with officials from China, Russia and Sri Lanka.
The visit highlights Pakistan’s effort to stay active in regional diplomacy while also expanding security, trade and law enforcement cooperation with international partners.
