Pakistan Will Not Bow to External Pressures: Ishaq Dar

Pakistan remains committed to its sovereign foreign policy and will not succumb to any external pressure, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar asserted on Thursday while concluding his official visit to the United States.

During a press conference before departing for Pakistan, Mr. Dar emphasized that relations between Islamabad and Washington remain stable and constructive. He dismissed speculation regarding U.S. influence on Pakistan’s policy decisions, reiterating that the country’s leadership makes independent choices in its national interest.

No Official Engagement with Trump Administration

While addressing queries about diplomatic engagements, Mr. Dar clarified that he had no direct meetings with officials from the Trump administration during his visit. However, he acknowledged ongoing diplomatic discussions between Pakistani and U.S. officials on key global and regional issues.

OIC Summit on Gaza Scheduled for March 7

The deputy prime minister revealed that an extraordinary session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers is set to convene in Jeddah on March 7. The meeting will focus on the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and discuss responses to recent U.S. proposals regarding the relocation of the Palestinian people.

Foreign ministers from key Islamic nations, including Iran, Egypt, Malaysia, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye, have called for an urgent dialogue to establish a unified stance on the crisis. Mr. Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for Palestinian rights and urged the global community to address the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe.

Tackling Cross-Border Security Threats

Responding to questions about increasing cross-border attacks from the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Mr. Dar underscored Pakistan’s persistent calls for the Afghan interim government to curb terrorist activities operating from its territory.

He announced plans to visit Kabul in the coming weeks to engage with Afghan leadership, reminding them of their international commitments to prevent their land from being used as a launchpad for attacks against Pakistan.

“Pakistan had successfully curtailed terrorism by 2018, but subsequent policy missteps led to its resurgence,” Mr. Dar stated. He pointed to the previous government’s decision to allow TTP fighters to return, attributing it to the escalation of security threats in recent years.

Strengthening Pakistan-Afghanistan Economic Ties

While addressing regional security concerns, Mr. Dar also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to Afghanistan’s economic development. He highlighted efforts to enhance regional connectivity and trade by integrating Pakistan with Central Asia through Afghanistan.

“We believe in fostering Afghanistan’s economic stability by facilitating trade routes and infrastructure projects that can benefit both nations,” he said.

Pakistan has continued to support Afghanistan through various humanitarian initiatives and economic programs, ensuring that stability and progress remain at the forefront of bilateral relations.

Conclusion: A Clear Diplomatic Stance

Pakistan’s foreign policy remains firm and independent, ensuring that national interests guide its strategic decisions. As Islamabad navigates complex regional and global challenges, it remains steadfast in its commitments to security, economic partnerships, and international diplomacy.

With key diplomatic engagements, including the upcoming OIC summit and talks with Afghan leadership, Pakistan aims to reinforce its role as a pivotal player in regional stability and global peace.

Source: The Dawn