ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has said that the global situation, particularly in the Middle East, remains extremely fragile and that Pakistan is utilizing all diplomatic channels to address emerging challenges.
Briefing foreign ambassadors, Dar stated that Pakistan is closely monitoring the situation in Iran and remains in constant contact with regional countries. He emphasized that the current circumstances are highly sensitive and that Islamabad is making every possible diplomatic effort to ensure regional stability.
The foreign minister said Pakistan also wants to take friendly countries into confidence regarding the situation in Afghanistan. He reiterated that Pakistan has conveyed one clear demand to Afghanistan: its territory must not be used for activities against Pakistan. Dar added that Pakistan seeks peaceful and cooperative relations with Afghanistan.
He noted that he visited Afghanistan three times last year, during which detailed discussions were held on the economy, trade, and other key matters. Talks also focused on enhancing connectivity through a proposed railway project.
Dar further claimed that Pakistan possesses concrete evidence of terrorist activities originating from Afghan soil. He said that Qatar had requested negotiations, but no meaningful outcome emerged. Similarly, the Istanbul talks failed to produce results.
Highlighting counterterrorism efforts, Dar said that under Operation Ghazab-ul-Haq, strong action was taken against the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militant elements, and several terrorist hideouts and camps were successfully destroyed. He also referred to a serious violation originating from Afghan territory in October.
The foreign minister concluded by stating that Pakistan maintains strong and positive relations with China, the United States, and other brotherly countries, and remains committed to promoting regional peace and stability.
