Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar emphasized the importance of a united commitment to fostering a peaceful and inclusive Asia-Pacific region based on sovereign equality and mutual respect.
Dar, speaking at the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum in Kuala Lumpur, welcomed ASEAN’s effort to formulate a post-2025 action plan. He expressed hope that the new roadmap would prioritize emerging security challenges, including climate change, pandemics, cyber threats, scams, maritime safety, and disaster response.
Addressing unresolved regional conflicts, Dar highlighted the Kashmir dispute, reiterating Pakistan’s long-standing call for a fair and peaceful settlement in line with UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
He urged the global community to support a peaceful resolution and the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.
Referring to the recent unprovoked Indian airstrike targeting civilians, Dar stated that Pakistan exercised its right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter. He said Pakistan’s military response was measured and focused solely on military targets, showcasing restraint. He rejected the idea of a “new normal” based on unilateralism and force as illegitimate and unacceptable.
Dar underscored that true norms must be grounded in mutual respect and international law. He reaffirmed that Pakistan will respond to future aggression with determination and responsibility, consistent with its right to self-defence.
He criticized India’s decision to unilaterally suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it a violation of international commitments. He warned that such actions jeopardize the livelihoods of millions and breach global legal norms, urging the international community to take serious notice.
On counterterrorism, Dar shared that Pakistan has sacrificed over 80,000 lives and suffered more than $150 billion in economic losses. He highlighted enhanced border security, cyber surveillance, and intelligence sharing, stressing that the roots of terrorism, such as poverty, injustice, occupation, and denial of rights, must be addressed.
Regarding Afghanistan, he stated that a stable, peaceful, and united Afghanistan is crucial for Pakistan. He called on the Afghan Interim Government to prevent the use of its territory for terrorist activities, especially against Pakistan.
Dar reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the creation of an independent, viable state with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.
On the South China Sea, he voiced Pakistan’s support for peace and dialogue, encouraging all Asia-Pacific nations to resolve disputes diplomatically and respectfully.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the “One China Policy,” recognizing the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate government of China, including Taiwan.
Addressing climate change, Dar called it a life-threatening challenge, especially for developing countries like Pakistan. He urged developed nations to fulfill their obligations by providing climate finance, technology, and capacity-building support.
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