Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has emphasized that lasting peace and regional stability in South Asia cannot be achieved without a fair and peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute. He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity while keeping diplomatic channels open.
Speaking at the Margalla Dialogue in Islamabad, Ishaq Dar addressed growing regional tensions, diplomatic challenges, and the importance of peaceful negotiations in resolving longstanding disputes.
He stressed that communication between countries should continue even during periods of serious confrontation. According to Dar, shutting down diplomatic channels only makes existing conflicts more complicated and reduces the chances of achieving lasting peace.
The deputy prime minister identified the unresolved Kashmir dispute as a major obstacle to restoring trust and stability in South Asia. He maintained that meaningful progress toward regional peace would remain difficult unless the issue was addressed through a just and peaceful settlement.
Dar also strongly opposed the use of water as a political weapon or a means of pressuring other countries. He emphasized that water is an essential resource and should not become a tool of confrontation between neighboring nations.
Highlighting the importance of regional cooperation, he said that sustainable economic growth and shared prosperity depend on peaceful conflict resolution, effective multilateral diplomacy, and secure trade routes.
The foreign minister further explained that Pakistan continues to engage with regional partners and parties involved in ongoing disputes to encourage dialogue and restore diplomatic communication.
He reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to diplomacy and peaceful engagement but will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security.
Dar’s remarks reflected Pakistan’s position that negotiations and diplomatic cooperation are essential for reducing tensions across the region.
His statement also highlighted the significance Pakistan attaches to the Kashmir dispute in efforts to establish mutual trust and long-term stability in South Asia.
The central question remains whether renewed diplomatic efforts and meaningful negotiations can help overcome decades of mistrust and move the region toward a more peaceful future.