Federal Grants from Provinces to Be Used for Defense and Key National Priorities: Ishaq Dar

Islamabad: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has said that federal grants provided by all four provinces will be utilized for defense and other important national priorities, while praising the provinces for their contribution and cooperation.

Speaking in the National Assembly, Dar paid tribute to the efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Field Marshal for their role in promoting peace and stability in the region.

He said that the decision by all four provinces to provide federal grants was commendable and reflected national unity. According to Dar, the funds will be allocated to critical sectors, including defense and other matters of national importance.

Highlighting Pakistan’s diplomatic role in regional affairs, the deputy prime minister stated that Pakistan was the first country to condemn the attack on Iran and remained actively engaged in efforts to reduce tensions. He noted that the prime minister maintained close contact with his counterparts throughout the crisis.

Dar further claimed that Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts contributed to achieving a temporary ceasefire and revealed that direct talks between Iran and the United States took place for the first time in 47 years. He said Pakistan played the role of a mediator between Washington and Tehran and had hoped that the issues could ultimately be resolved in Islamabad.

The foreign minister also disclosed that since February 28, he had contacted counterparts from 52 countries as part of Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach. He said Pakistan is increasingly being recognized internationally as a “peacemaker” nation due to its efforts to promote dialogue and conflict resolution.

Referring to global energy markets, Dar noted that oil prices have been declining rapidly since the ceasefire. He added that when the Strait of Hormuz was closed, the government provided subsidies to the transportation sector to help mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs.

The deputy prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace, diplomatic engagement, and international cooperation, emphasizing that dialogue remains the most effective path toward resolving conflicts and ensuring stability.