Deputy PM Ishaq Dar Says Pakistan Gave Timely and Appropriate Demarche to UK, Respects All Friendly Nations
Islamabad: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar stated that while Pakistan respects all friendly countries, adherence to principles in diplomatic relations is essential. He highlighted that when threats were made against key Pakistani figures during a protest outside the Pakistani consulate in the UK, Pakistan issued a correct and timely demarche to the British government.
Delivering the annual briefing in Islamabad, Ishaq Dar emphasized that the Prime Minister and Field Marshal are aligned in eliminating the scourge of terrorism, noting that investors will not engage unless security is ensured. He recalled that terrorism had been eradicated from Pakistan in 2018, but lapses by certain individuals allowed it to resurface.
On regional security, Dar condemned India’s attack on Nur Khan Airbase, calling it a major and serious mistake. During a four-day conflict, Pakistan’s armed forces not only disproved Indian claims but also humbled its aggression. He said that following the April 22 incident, the Foreign Office was highly active, and Pakistan clearly communicated to the international community that it would not initiate aggression.
He added that India, under the pretext of the Pahalgam and Pulwama incidents, attempted to undermine the Indus Waters Treaty and occupy parts of Kashmir. During 36 hours of escalated tension, India deployed 80 drones and aircraft, of which 79 were effectively neutralized by Pakistani forces.
Ishaq Dar also detailed Pakistan’s diplomatic achievements, stating that more than 60 world leaders contacted Pakistan during and after recent crises, highlighting Pakistan’s growing international recognition in 2025. He praised UAE support, noting that $1 billion in liabilities is being converted into investments and that the UAE will invest in Pakistan’s military foundation. Discussions on a $2 billion rollover are also underway to convert it into direct investment.
دوست ممالک سر آنکھوں پہ لیکن کچھ اصولوں کو سامنے رکھنا پڑتا ہے اور وہ ہم رکھتے ہیں، جب یو کے میں پاکستانی قونصلیٹ کے سامنے مظاہرہ ہو اور وہاں فیلڈ مارشل کو قتل کی دھمکیاں دی جائیں تو کیا ہم یو کے کے ساتھ دوستی کو دیکھتے رہیں گے یا ان کو بلا کر یہ احساس دلائیں گے کہ یہاں کیا ہورہا… pic.twitter.com/ASxl6u4IQr
— WE News (@WENewsPk) December 27, 2025
He mentioned Pakistan’s strengthened cooperation with IMF, Saudi Arabia, China, and the U.S., noting trade volume with the U.S. has reached $13.28 billion and Pakistan maintains a trade surplus. Cooperation in counterterrorism has also increased, with BLA and Majid Brigade designated as global terrorist organizations.
On Kashmir, he reaffirmed Pakistan’s stance that human rights violations must be addressed according to the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination. He also highlighted positive developments with Bangladesh, including strengthened bilateral ties after the February elections.
Dar noted efforts to engage Afghanistan constructively, ensuring agreements are implemented while demanding Afghan territory not be used for terrorism. He stressed the human cost of conflict, observing that Pakistan weekly recovers the bodies of its soldiers.
Regarding Libya, he confirmed that Field Marshal Asim Munir signed a memorandum of understanding to mediate between rival governments, emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability.
Concluding, Ishaq Dar highlighted Pakistan’s coordinated approach to diplomacy and defense, praising Field Marshal Asim Munir for enhancing Pakistan’s image abroad and affirming that “we operate as one team with the agenda of Pakistan’s national interest.”
