ISLAMABAD (The Thursday Times) — Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar strongly rejected recent allegations made by a senior US official regarding Pakistan’s missile capabilities and strategic intent. Speaking in his dual capacity as a senior government figure, Dar condemned the claims as baseless, speculative, and a disregard for the longstanding bilateral ties between Pakistan and the United States. He underscored Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to regional peace and its right to maintain a credible deterrence, essential for national security and sovereignty.
Allegations dismissed as speculative and divisive
Ishaq Dar framed the US official’s remarks as part of a narrative that lacks historical understanding and rationality. He pointed out that Pakistan and the United States have shared a positive relationship since 1954, one built on cooperation in areas ranging from regional security to economic development. The allegations, Dar noted, undermine this legacy and serve only to harm an alliance critical to South Asian stability.
Dar was particularly vocal about the selective nature of the scrutiny on Pakistan’s strategic program, noting that similar or even more advanced missile capabilities in neighbouring states have been consistently overlooked. He described this approach as one that fuels regional imbalances and exacerbates existing tensions, rather than addressing the need for peace and cooperation.
Strategic program a cornerstone of sovereignty
As Deputy Prime Minister, Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s strategic program as a vital component of its sovereignty and national defence. He stressed that the program is designed solely for defensive purposes and exists to counter the clear and immediate threats emerging from its eastern neighbour.
Dar criticised attempts to cast Pakistan’s missile capabilities as a threat to global security, calling such narratives unjustified and harmful to mutual trust. He stated unequivocally that Pakistan’s strategic program is not up for debate, nor will any attempt to compromise its integrity be entertained. “This is a red line for Pakistan,” Dar said, underscoring that the program reflects a national consensus, with support spanning all political and social spectrums.
Historical efforts to address US concerns
Dar highlighted the continuous efforts of successive Pakistani governments to address concerns raised by the United States since 2012. Despite repeated clarifications and open dialogue, these misplaced concerns persist, damaging a relationship that Pakistan has historically prioritised.
He noted that Pakistan has not only engaged constructively but has also provided evidence of its commitment to peace in the region. He emphasised that the country’s strategic capabilities are tailored specifically to maintain credible minimum deterrence and are not directed towards any nation beyond its legitimate security concerns.
Call for a balanced and constructive approach
While rejecting the allegations, Ishaq Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s willingness to engage in dialogue with the US. He stressed the importance of a balanced approach that focuses on shared interests and mutual respect. He urged the US to acknowledge Pakistan’s sacrifices, particularly its enduring role in combating the fallout of regional conflicts, many of which stemmed from US-led policies.
Dar also criticised the framing of Pakistan as being adversarial, pointing out that such narratives ignore the monumental contributions Pakistan has made to regional and global security. He called for the US to adopt a more nuanced perspective, one that strengthens the historic partnership rather than undermines it.
Peace and stability
Dar concluded by reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to peace and stability in South Asia. He stated that the nation’s strategic program is aimed at deterring existential threats, not at escalating conflicts. He urged the US and other international actors to recognise the significance of maintaining strategic stability in one of the world’s most volatile regions.
Ishaq Dar’s comments reflect Pakistan’s broader stance on its strategic capabilities: they are non-negotiable, defensive, and crucial for maintaining regional balance. As Pakistan continues to face evolving threats, its leadership remains committed to safeguarding sovereignty while seeking constructive engagement with its allies.