ISLAMABAD (The Thursday Times) — Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, has shared insights on the country’s proactive diplomatic stance ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit. In an exclusive interview with a private news channel, Dar highlighted that several world leaders, including heads of state from China, Russia, and other influential nations, are expected to attend. This marks a significant moment for Pakistan, as the summit represents the most high-profile international gathering in the country since 1997.
Dar underscored Pakistan’s desire to maintain good relations with global powers, including Russia, China, the UK, and the US, emphasising a balanced approach to foreign relations. “We want good diplomatic relations with everyone,” Dar stated, adding that, under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, Pakistan’s foreign policy has been steering towards success.
Diplomatic isolation reversed
Addressing claims of diplomatic isolation, Dar refuted suggestions that Pakistan was being sidelined internationally. He pointed out that recent visits from the Malaysian Prime Minister and a high-level Saudi delegation, alongside the upcoming SCO summit, signify a shift. “Pakistan has become a member of the UN Security Council, receiving 182 votes, which is a clear indicator of our international standing,” he remarked.
Dar also confirmed that Russia’s Prime Minister would attend the summit and that President Vladimir Putin has been invited to Pakistan as well. The SCO meeting further bolsters Pakistan’s standing, with Dar noting it provides an opportunity to engage with global leaders on critical issues affecting the region.
Challenging internal politics
Turning to domestic issues, Dar criticised the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, blaming it for political instability in the country. According to Dar, PTI’s refusal to compromise is the primary reason for the ongoing political turmoil. He mentioned PTI’s 2014 sit-ins, which delayed the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project, and their disruptive protests planned during the SCO summit. “It is shameful that PTI is planning protests at such a critical time for Pakistan,” Dar said, condemning their actions.
Furthermore, PTI’s refusal to participate in the All Parties Conference (APC) on Palestine was another issue that Dar criticised, underscoring the importance of unity on international matters, particularly regarding Palestine.
Improved economic outlook
On the economic front, Dar was optimistic, citing that Pakistan’s economic indicators are improving. He pointed out that inflation, which was over 30% a year ago, has now reduced to 6.9%. Dar mentioned that agreements on the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) are being finalised, with specific projects such as the Karachi-Hyderabad Motorway (ML-1) coming into play. The development of economic zones under CPEC’s second phase is also under discussion with China, indicating Pakistan’s economic recovery.
Palestine and international diplomacy
Dar reiterated Pakistan’s stance on the Palestine issue, a topic that the country has raised at multiple international forums, including the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the D-8 Organisation for Economic Cooperation. “There is ongoing genocide in Palestine, and this must stop immediately,” Dar asserted. He emphasised the need for a Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital, reinforcing Pakistan’s firm position on the matter.
