Summary Dar said Pakistan had played an active diplomatic role in promoting peace and stability in the Gulf region and had also facilitated efforts towards dialogue between the United States and Iran
(Dunya News) - Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has said on Thursday that Pakistan is committed to playing its role through the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) to promote regional peace, stability and cooperation.
Addressing the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum, Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for effective implementation of the Manila Plan of Action 2036, saying stronger multilateral cooperation was essential to address global and regional challenges.
He said a just resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute was essential for lasting peace in South Asia. Pakistan, he added, would continue to support a peaceful and fair settlement of the issue and urged the international community to uphold international law and promote peaceful resolution of disputes.
Dar said Pakistan had played an active diplomatic role in promoting peace and stability in the Gulf region and had also facilitated efforts towards dialogue between the United States and Iran.
He described India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty as a concerning and provocative step, warning that unilateral actions concerning the agreement could affect the interests of 250 million Pakistanis.
Expressing concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the deputy prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination. He said Pakistan supported the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders.
Dar described terrorism as a serious threat to global peace and security, saying Pakistan had sacrificed more than 90,000 lives in the fight against terrorism and would continue its efforts against all forms of terrorism.
He stressed that Afghan territory must not be used for terrorism against Pakistan, adding that peace in Afghanistan would help promote regional trade, connectivity and development.
The deputy prime minister also reiterated Pakistan’s support for the peaceful resolution of disputes in the South China Sea and reaffirmed Islamabad’s commitment to the One-China policy.
Calling climate change a major challenge for developing countries, Dar stressed the need for stronger international cooperation to address its impact.
He said sovereignty, mutual respect and dialogue were the foundations of a shared future, urging all parties to exercise restraint and resolve disputes through diplomacy.
