WASHINGTON: During a policy address at the Atlantic Council in Washington, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar expressed Islamabad’s willingness to collaborate with India in combating terrorism.
He emphasized the need for substantive dialogue between the two nations, suggesting that such talks take place at a neutral venue.
“Pakistan remains prepared to engage with India in meaningful discussions,” Dar said. “We have already taken steps against groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba years ago. Unfortunately, India continues to distract global attention with unfounded claims. The regional context cannot be ignored,” he stated.
Turning to the Middle East, Dar reiterated Pakistan’s longstanding stance on the Israel-Palestine issue. He called for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with Al Quds (Jerusalem) as its capital.
In terms of foreign relations, Dar focused on enhancing economic ties with the United States, asserting that Islamabad prefers a trade-based relationship over reliance on aid. Reflecting on his meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, he described the exchange as “productive” and noted that a bilateral trade agreement could be finalized in the near future.
“The world is undergoing major shifts, and economic pressures are being felt globally,” he noted. “Terrorism remains a grave challenge, and Pakistan is firmly committed to countering it.”
Addressing concerns over Islamabad’s defense purchases from China, Dar clarified that such actions are not intended to disrupt its ties with Washington. “Our international partnerships are not zero-sum. We do not view any bilateral relationship through the lens of another,” he explained.
On the domestic front, Dar criticized the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party for its prolonged 2014 sit-in, claiming it significantly impacted the country’s economy. He defended the legal proceedings against the PTI founder related to the May 9 events, emphasizing that no one is above the law. “Even a mediator like me cannot defend someone who resorts to violence,” Dar remarked.
He also addressed the case of Dr Aafia Siddiqui, noting that her incarceration in the U.S. continues under American law. “Pakistan respects the sovereignty of other states and expects the same in return. We do not seek conflict with our neighbors,” he affirmed.
In response to recent geopolitical developments, Dar stated that Russia’s recognition of the Taliban-led Afghan government was its own sovereign decision, and Pakistan would not interfere.
