Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar urged the international community to continue supporting diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran, saying “we must not let this opportunity slip through our hands.” Speaking at the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting in Manila, Ishaq Dar ASEAN Forum remarks focused on preserving recent progress toward peace and stability in the Gulf.
Dar said Pakistan had done “everything within its capacity” to help facilitate dialogue and reduce tensions in the region. He highlighted Pakistan’s role in supporting ceasefire efforts, including hosting the Islamabad Talks and contributing to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, while thanking the US, Iran, Gulf states and other partners for their confidence.
During the Ishaq Dar ASEAN Forum address, the foreign minister described recent diplomatic achievements as hard-earned successes that should be protected through continued dialogue. He called on all parties to exercise restraint, honour their commitments and pursue peaceful engagement to ensure lasting regional stability and the safe reopening of key maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz.
Addressing wider regional issues, Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to dialogue, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. He welcomed the adoption of the Manila Plan of Action (2026–2036) and described the ASEAN Regional Forum as an important pillar of regional security cooperation.
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Statement by the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister of Pakistan Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 at the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting, Manila, Philippines (23 July 2026)
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— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) July 23, 2026
Turning to South Asia, Dar reiterated Pakistan’s position on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, calling for a peaceful resolution in accordance with the UN Charter and relevant UN Security Council resolutions. He also criticised India’s decision regarding the Indus Waters Treaty, expressing concern over its potential humanitarian and regional implications.
The foreign minister also discussed Gaza, terrorism, Afghanistan, Ukraine and the South China Sea. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for an independent Palestinian state, condemned terrorism in all its forms and urged the Afghan Taliban to prevent Afghan territory from being used for attacks against neighbouring countries. He further stressed that dialogue remains the only sustainable path to resolving international disputes.
Concluding his speech, Ishaq Dar ASEAN Forum remarks emphasised Pakistan’s commitment to regional cooperation, climate action and multilateral diplomacy. He called on ASEAN member states and the international community to work together for a peaceful, inclusive and resilient region built on sovereign equality, mutual respect and constructive engagement.
