Pakistan's Foreign Policy Rooted in Peace and Security, Says Deputy PM
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering commitment to resolving international disputes through peaceful dialogue and diplomatic engagement. Addressing a ceremony in Islamabad, Dar emphasized that the nation's foreign policy is fundamentally designed to protect the security of its citizens while actively promoting regional stability and economic cooperation.
Kashmir Dispute Central to South Asian Stability
Dar reiterated that achieving lasting peace in South Asia is intrinsically linked to a just and equitable settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. He stressed that any resolution must align with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and, crucially, reflect the genuine aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
The Deputy Prime Minister explicitly called for India to reverse its unilateral actions taken on August 5, 2019, in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. He asserted that such measures undermine the prospects for peace and violate international norms.
Defense Readiness and Diplomatic Priorities
While championing diplomacy as Pakistan's primary tool of statecraft, Ishaq Dar underscored the nation's robust defense capabilities. He declared that Pakistan possesses both the unwavering will and the full capacity to deliver a decisive response to any act of aggression, ensuring the country's sovereignty remains inviolable.
Strengthening Global and Regional Partnerships
Dar highlighted the ongoing expansion of Pakistan's key international relationships:
- China: The all-weather strategic cooperative partnership continues to deepen across multiple sectors.
- United States: Bilateral ties are evolving beyond traditional security cooperation into vibrant areas of trade, technology exchange, and mutual investment.
- Regional Nations: Relations with Bangladesh, Central Asian states, and Gulf countries are being fortified through consistent high-level diplomatic engagements and enhanced economic collaboration.
Economic Diplomacy as a Central Pillar
Terming economic diplomacy a cornerstone of Pakistan's foreign policy, Dar outlined a focused strategy to drive national development. The policy prioritizes attracting investment and fostering growth in critical sectors, including:
- Information Technology
- Mineral Resources
- Energy Production
- Manufacturing Industries
This approach aims to secure sustainable prosperity and elevate Pakistan's economic standing on the global stage.
Global Recognition at the United Nations
Referring to Pakistan's recent election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the 2025–26 term, Dar described this achievement as a significant testament to the international community's confidence in Pakistan's principled, constructive, and responsible diplomatic conduct.
