ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN — Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Monday emphasized that Pakistan’s foreign policy is now firmly rooted in geo-economics, urging a strategic rethinking of regional cooperation in South Asia. Speaking at an event marking the 52nd anniversary of the Institute for Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), Dar laid out Pakistan’s evolving foreign policy doctrine and reiterated the country’s commitment to economic diplomacy, regional integration, and global partnerships.
Dar’s remarks come at a time when Pakistan has taken steps to mend ties with neighboring countries, expand development partnerships, and reshape its strategic posture in the region. He underscored the importance of using foreign policy as a tool to boost trade, attract investment, increase remittances, and enhance technology flows.
Reframing Regional Engagement
“In today’s world, economic strength is the cornerstone of national power,” Dar said, calling for a “positive lift” in South Asia through solidarity, mutual collaboration, and shared prosperity. He blamed India’s “impulsive actions” for derailing regional cooperation and rendering the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) ineffective.
Despite longstanding regional tensions, Pakistan has recently launched new diplomatic initiatives. On June 19, Pakistan joined China and Bangladesh in forming a trilateral cooperation mechanism to pursue “win-win cooperation.” Dar described this development as a subtle yet meaningful shift in the region’s strategic landscape, particularly in light of historically strained relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
“Such interventions can be envisaged with other South Asian nations as well, based on principles of common interest, mutual benefit, and win-win cooperation,” he added.
Resetting Ties with Afghanistan
On relations with Afghanistan, Dar highlighted a parallel trilateral mechanism involving China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. He recalled his visit to Kabul on April 19 and subsequent discussions in Beijing, which he said paved the way for “a qualitative change” in the bilateral relationship.
Pakistan has also agreed to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan. Dar emphasized that Pakistan has acted in good faith and now expects the Afghan interim government to ensure its territory is not used for terrorism against any country, particularly Pakistan.
Broadening Strategic Horizons
Dar reiterated Pakistan’s strong strategic partnership with China, calling it an “all-weather relationship” that continues to grow. He also noted that ties with the United States are expanding “both in scope and substance.” Relations with Russia, he said, are developing into a “vital partnership,” while engagements with the European Union, Japan, and ASEAN are progressing.
In the Gulf region, Pakistan is deepening cooperation with Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
Highlighting changes in global geopolitics, Dar stressed the need for a “forward-looking foreign policy” that safeguards Pakistan’s sovereignty and upholds its role as a responsible international actor.
Firm Stance on Security and India
Commenting on the recent military skirmishes with India in May, Dar said Pakistan gave a “quid pro quo plus” response, which he described as the “new normal” if India persists in its doctrine of limited war under the nuclear threshold. “India can neither intimidate nor coerce Pakistan,” Dar said, urging New Delhi to abandon what he called its “hubristic and misguided policies.”
He also condemned India’s move to unilaterally suspend the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in the wake of the Pahalgam attack, calling it “illegal and a violation of international law.” Dar vowed that Pakistan would continue to engage all relevant international and legal forums to challenge India’s actions.
Support for Kashmir and Palestine
Reaffirming Pakistan’s long-standing support for the Kashmiri cause, Dar said that sustainable peace in South Asia hinges on a “just and lasting resolution” of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.
He also condemned the United States’ recent strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities during the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran, calling the attacks a “clear violation of international law and the UN Charter.”
Dar further denounced Israel’s ongoing actions in Gaza, describing them as a “stain on the collective conscience of humanity.” He reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the recognition of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state.
