Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Monday emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining peaceful, cooperative and good neighborly relations, with all countries despite facing challenges and setbacks in certain instances.
Speaking at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad’s (ISSI) 51st Foundation Day, he highlighted the importance of dialogue, the avoidance of bloc politics, and adherence to the UN Charter.
Dar stressed Pakistan’s focus on economic development and regional peace, particularly with Afghanistan and India, advocating for stability in South Asia.
He also underscored Pakistan’s strong strategic partnership with China, its desire for deeper ties with neighboring and major powers, and its commitment to multilateralism.
The overarching goal was to enhance regional connectivity and economic security through a pivot to geo-economics, he added.
Dar stated that despite challenges, Pakistan remained steadfast.
A peaceful, stable, united, and prosperous Afghanistan was in Pakistan’s interest due to shared history, geography, culture, and music, he added, Delivering his welcome remarks, DG ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood underscored the growing impact of think-tanks and research organizations globally, stressing their pivotal role in generating research-based inputs, fostering informed dialogue, and impacting policy.
Over the past five decades, he said, the ISSI has evolved into a formidable research organization and a reputable public sector think-tank.
The Chairman and DG ISSI presented a special shield to the chief guest, which was followed by the cutting of a cake celebrating ISSI’s 51st anniversary.
The event was attended by a large number of former diplomats, senior officials, members of the Islamabad-based Diplomatic Corps, academics, scholars and researchers, and representatives of civil society, think-tanks, and the media.
