Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has called for stronger international cooperation and multilateral diplomacy to address growing regional and global challenges, stressing that dialogue remains essential for resolving conflicts and achieving shared prosperity.
Addressing the inaugural session of the Margalla Dialogue in Islamabad, Dar said the international security framework was facing increasing pressure as geopolitical, economic and financial challenges became more interconnected.
Organised by the Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI), the conference brought together national and international experts to discuss emerging regional and global issues.
Dar said the use of military force was reducing opportunities for diplomacy, while political differences were making it increasingly difficult for multilateral organisations, including the United Nations, to respond effectively to international crises.
He emphasised the need for stronger international institutions and urged countries to maintain open communication channels to prevent misunderstandings and escalating conflicts.
Technology Changing Global Security Landscape
Discussing emerging technologies, Dar said technological developments were creating new opportunities as well as security threats.
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He noted that these advances were also changing the nature of conflicts, making international cooperation increasingly important.
Dar Highlights Pakistan’s Foreign Policy Priorities
Discussing Pakistan’s foreign policy, Dar described the country’s strategic partnership with China as a key pillar of its external relations.
He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and said Islamabad remained willing to engage with regional partners.
Dar also highlighted Pakistan’s role in facilitating talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad earlier this year, describing the diplomatic initiative as a reflection of the country’s approach to resolving international disputes through dialogue.
Kashmir Dispute Essential for Regional Peace
On regional security, Dar said resolving the Jammu and Kashmir dispute was essential for achieving lasting peace in South Asia.
He also reiterated Pakistan’s opposition to the weaponisation of water and said the country would continue to protect its sovereignty and citizens.
Referring to the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, Dar said the agreement was defensive in nature and aimed at promoting regional peace and stability.
Global South Must Have a Stronger Voice
Dar stressed that the emerging global order must take into account the development priorities and needs of countries in the Global South.
He said decisions taken by countries today would shape the future of international cooperation and determine whether the world moved towards greater stability or further conflict.
