Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Wednesday told the National Assembly that Pakistan is set to assume key roles in upcoming multilateral forums, including chair positions in regional organisations, reflecting growing international confidence in the country’s diplomatic engagement.
Pakistan's Growing Diplomatic Profile
Dar said Pakistan’s diplomatic standing is reflected in its participation in regional and international platforms, including Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) meetings, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) forums, and ECO-related cooperation frameworks. He noted that Pakistan’s increasing participation in high-level global forums and its role in hosting or co-chairing international events—such as upcoming OIC women-related conferences and SCO meetings—underscore its active engagement.
Foreign Policy Guided by Cooperation and Stability
Referring to regional strategic developments, including defence and security understandings with friendly countries, Dar said Pakistan’s foreign policy is guided by cooperation, stability, and regional connectivity. He added that Pakistan continues to pursue economic integration initiatives, including cross-border trade and market connectivity with neighbouring countries, particularly Iran.
Dar further stated that Pakistan has consistently advocated peaceful engagement in regional conflicts and supported dialogue-based solutions. Efforts are aimed at strengthening economic ties, expanding trade volumes, and enhancing regional stability through structured cooperation frameworks, he said.
Recent Diplomatic Achievements
According to Dar, recent diplomatic achievements reflect sustained efforts by the government, the Foreign Office, and the country’s leadership, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. These developments demonstrate increasing international trust in Pakistan’s constructive role in global affairs.
Mediation in US-Iran Tensions
Briefing the House on the US-Iran peace agreement, Dar said Pakistan made extensive diplomatic efforts during a period of heightened tensions, playing a mediating role by maintaining continuous contact with international counterparts and facilitating dialogue. A series of meetings were held, including discussions in Islamabad and Riyadh.
Dar explained that Pakistan acted as a neutral facilitator, ensuring confidentiality of discussions between the parties. Sensitive documents were not shared publicly or with third parties without the consent of both sides to preserve the credibility and trust of the mediation process. A breakthrough was achieved after prolonged negotiations, with Pakistan facilitating communication between the two sides, followed by multiple rounds of technical and policy-level discussions in April, May, and June.
The second phase involved technical negotiations on sensitive issues, including sanctions-related matters, frozen assets, and regional conflict zones. Dar also referred to broader regional tensions involving Lebanon and Iran, stating that Pakistan supported continued engagement to prevent escalation.
Follow-Up and International Recognition
Pakistan’s role continued after the signing, with follow-up consultations involving multiple parties, including the United States, Iran, Qatar, and Pakistan, leading to a joint statement issued on 22 June. The process reflected effective diplomatic coordination and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to constructive engagement in regional peace efforts.
Dar added that Pakistan continues to receive multiple international invitations and is increasingly being recognized as an active diplomatic player.
