He says Pakistan will happily be part of the ISF if the mandate does not involve imposing peace or disarming Hamas
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar addresses a press conference in Islamabad on Friday to review Pakistan’s diplomatic performance in 2025.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reiterated on Saturday that Pakistan was ready to participate in an international force aimed at restoring peace in Gaza, provided its mandate does not include the disarmament of Hamas.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad to review Pakistan’s diplomatic performance in 2025, Dar termed the issue of participation in the proposed International Stabilization Force (ISF) as “very sensitive”.
“That is why we have always used the term peacekeeping and never peace enforcement, whether in New York, Istanbul or here,” he said.
He added: “I have made it very clear that Pakistan would be happy to be part of it if the mandate does not involve the imposition of peace or the disarmament of Hamas. This is the responsibility of the Palestinian Authority or the government of the day. Our role will be limited to supporting them in maintaining peace.”
The Gaza peace deal, negotiated with US mediation, envisages the creation of the ISF, which would mainly include troops from predominantly Muslim countries.
Global situation and foreign policy priorities
Reviewing the annual performance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dar said Pakistan, once considered “diplomatically isolated”, has regained a strong and important position in the international arena thanks to what he described as the government’s proactive and principled foreign policy.
“Pakistan’s active, principled and firm stance on major global issues has been appreciated and recognized at international platforms,” he said, adding that these stances have enhanced Pakistan’s global credibility.
“When the PDM government took office, Pakistan was seen as diplomatically isolated. Today, however, our key role in global affairs is recognized,” he added.
Referring to regional security, Mr. Dar cited the four-day standoff with India, saying New Delhi’s efforts to present itself as a security provider had failed. “India tried to assert its dominance in the region and portray itself as a security provider, but it failed. After the Pulwama incident, India made false accusations against Pakistan, but the Ministry of Foreign Affairs remained active and our national defense is now strong and resilient. Pakistan showed responsibility during Indian aggression, as we have always advocated peace.”
He also highlighted Pakistan’s defense capabilities, saying, “Our nuclear and ballistic power has made the country’s defense virtually invincible.” »
Dar highlighted the government’s focus on economic growth, adding: “Our focus is now on transforming Pakistan into an economic powerhouse, and achieving this position will enable leadership within the Muslim world. Pakistan is rich in natural resources, minerals, gems and gas, and foreign investment is coming through projects like Reko Diq.”
Referring to the recent visit of the UAE President, he said: “The UAE will acquire shares in a military group, which is expected to settle $1 billion in dues, while the repayment period of the $2 billion loan may also be extended. » He thanked Saudi Arabia, UAE and China for their support to Pakistan’s financial stability.
On the Kashmir issue, Dar said, “A lasting peace in the region is impossible until the Jammu and Kashmir dispute is resolved. Pakistan has strongly protested against India’s illegal actions in occupied Kashmir and highlighted the issue at the international level. At the UN Security Council meetings, human rights violations have been discussed and as per Council resolutions, a referendum with Kashmir’s participation remains the only solution.”
Dar also addressed water disputes, saying, “Regarding the Indus Water Treaty, Pakistan is actively raising this issue in the OIC, the International Court of Arbitration and the UN, and reports support our position. »
He cited improved relations with Bangladesh as “significant progress”, detailing meetings with government officials and political and student groups during his visits. “A climate of goodwill has been created and relations will be further strengthened after the February elections,” he added.
Discussing Pakistan-US relations, Dar said, “Our relations have seen ups and downs. Under the previous Biden administration, relations were limited, but the current administration has moved trade, investment and bilateral relations in a positive direction, with strong counter-terrorism cooperation.” He praised the Trump administration for its role in mediating a ceasefire between Pakistan and India, pointing out that Trump had been nominated for the Nobel Prize for peace for its contribution to peace. He added: “Bilateral trade with the US reached $13.28 billion and tariffs on Pakistan remain among the lowest in South Asia. »
The DPM highlighted Pakistan’s engagement with Turkey, OIC Member States, China, EU, ASEAN, UN, SCO and Russia, where multiple economic, defense and investment cooperation agreements were signed. He highlighted Pakistan’s principled stance in promoting peace in Gaza and resolving the Palestinian issue, saying: “Dialogue, engagement, regional stability, economic cooperation and promotion of peace are the pillars of Pakistan’s foreign policy, aligned with our national interests.”
Regarding the nationwide protests, he commented: “The PTI protests in the UK were purely provocative, involving death threats, which is completely unacceptable. The UK government must act to prevent such incidents, and taking action was the right step.”
He also expressed his concern about terrorism emanating from Afghan territory. “The Taliban government’s response has not been satisfactory and no concrete action is being taken against the militants. ” He concluded by noting that “India remains the only country obstructing the effective role of SAARC, which is unfortunate.”
