LAHORE:
Pakistan is increasingly recognized as a global “peacemaker” and an emerging “middle power”, following its mediating role in ending the war between the United States and Iran, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said on Thursday.
Addressing the media at Data Darbar in Lahore, Dar said the country’s role in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran has enhanced its international reputation and diplomatic profile and positively transformed the global perception of the country.
He said Pakistan was once described as a diplomatically isolated country but is now recognized worldwide for its constructive role in promoting peace and stability. “Today, Pakistan is recognized throughout the world as a peace-making country,” he said.
“Pakistan is now recognized as a middle power and internet security provider. Countries that previously knew little about Pakistan are now taking note of our diplomatic engagement and mediation efforts,” he said.
The DPM thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Field Marshal Asim Munir and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their intensive diplomatic efforts, stressing that Pakistan acted as an honest and impartial facilitator in the process.
“Much of the diplomacy remained behind the scenes because a mediator could not become a party to a dispute,” Dar explained. “Pakistan has ensured peace and stability in the region through its mediation efforts and the nation is grateful for the respect gained during the process.”
Dar reiterated Pakistan’s stance on the conflict involving Iran, saying Islamabad was among the first countries to condemn attacks on a “brotherly Islamic country”, adding that Islamabad had simultaneously encouraged restraint and dialogue to avoid further bloodshed.
He said Pakistan ranked among the top 24 economies in the world before falling in subsequent years. “Pakistan’s next goal is to become an economic power,” he said, adding that the country had already become a responsible nuclear and missile power.
He said the government had inherited difficult economic conditions but the country was now moving towards growth, development and public welfare. He said economic indicators were moving in a positive direction again.
On the occasion, the Deputy Prime Minister congratulated devotees on the 983rd Ghusl Mubarak of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA) and welcomed the ongoing expansion of Data Darbar Complex.
“Pakistan is moving towards growth, development and public welfare,” he said. Referring to the country’s economic challenges, Dar said the government had inherited a damaged economy and rebuilding it would take time.
“The four-year gap has caused significant destruction and, of course, it takes time to repair the damage. However, the situation is now moving in a positive direction,” he added.
Addressing regional tensions, Dar said Pakistan strongly condemns the attack on Iran and remains actively engaged in diplomatic efforts.
He revealed that he had more than 150 contacts with his counterparts, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif maintained regular communications with world leaders.
