Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reaffirmed on Monday that Pakistan’s foreign policy is now firmly rooted in geo-economics, with an emphasis on strengthening regional cooperation in South Asia. Addressing the 52nd anniversary of the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), Dar highlighted the role of diplomacy in promoting trade, attracting investment, encouraging remittances, and building development partnerships.
He referenced recent initiatives such as the trilateral cooperation framework with China and Bangladesh, as well as renewed engagement with Afghanistan via a China-backed trilateral mechanism. Dar noted that extending the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan underlines Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and prosperity.
Criticizing India’s “impulsive actions” for hindering SAARC and broader regional collaboration, he called for a revitalized spirit of solidarity and mutual benefit across South Asia. He reiterated Pakistan’s firm stance on Kashmir, emphasizing that lasting peace in the region depends on a just resolution of the dispute.
Dar also pointed to Pakistan’s expanding international relationships, including strategic ties with China, broadening cooperation with the United States, and growing engagement with Russia, the European Union, ASEAN, and Gulf nations like Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
On the issue of Indian military escalation, Dar stated that Pakistan’s “quid pro quo plus” response now defines its strategic posture, rejecting any notion of limited conflict below the nuclear threshold. He condemned India’s unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, vowing to pursue legal and international recourse.
Additionally, Dar denounced the U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities and Israel’s military actions in Gaza, calling them violations of international law. He reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for Palestinian statehood.
