Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar declared that Pakistan’s international reputation as a peacemaker and a regional security provider is growing substantially following its successful mediation between the United States and Iran. Speaking at a press conference in Lahore, Dar emphasized that Pakistan’s diplomatic achievements have transformed its global image, moving the country from a narrative of isolation to a pivotal role in resolving international conflicts.
He highlighted Pakistan’s unprecedented success in facilitating direct negotiations between the US and Iran for the first time in 47 years, which culminated in the historic Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Dar pointed out that global partners, including the United States, now officially recognize Pakistan as a key security guarantor in the region due to its strategic and sincere diplomatic efforts.
Alongside these diplomatic breakthroughs, Dar praised the government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for rescuing the domestic economy from decline and setting it on a steady path of daily improvement. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s position as a responsible nuclear power, attributing this to the strong civil-military coordination under the leadership of PM Sharif and Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, which has safeguarded the nation against hostile threats.
Addressing the media after the 983rd annual washing (Ghusl) ceremony of the revered Sufi saint Hazrat Ali bin Usman Hajveri (Data Ganj Bakhsh), Dar extended congratulations to the nation on behalf of the president, the prime minister, and PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif. He recalled a time when critics claimed Pakistan was diplomatically isolated, contrasting it with today’s global recognition of Pakistan’s unique success in what he termed “Maarka-e-Haq,” with the country’s name now resonating worldwide as a peacemaker.
Dar detailed that Pakistan’s intensive diplomatic efforts, spanning from February 28 to June 25, bridged the deep divide between Washington and Tehran. This mediation paved the way for direct, high-level technical discussions in Switzerland addressing longstanding issues such as nuclear programs, economic sanctions, and regional stability in Lebanon.
The foreign minister noted that tangible benefits of Pakistan’s mediation are already evident, citing the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for free, fee-free maritime navigation and the resulting stabilization of global energy prices.
On defense matters, Dar underscored Pakistan’s unyielding defense capabilities, acknowledging the foundational contributions of former leaders like Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif in establishing the country’s strong nuclear deterrent. He issued a firm warning to external adversaries attempting to undermine Pakistan’s progress, stating that those who sought to isolate Islamabad now face international disgrace.
“If anyone casts an evil eye on Pakistan, we will pluck their eyes out,” Dar declared, emphasizing the resolute defense posture maintained under Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir’s leadership.
Turning to economic issues, Dar acknowledged that previous negative economic policies had severely impeded Pakistan’s development. However, he asserted that the current administration has reversed this trend. “We must now focus all our energies on making Pakistan economically strong,” he said, affirming that PM Sharif has stabilized the economy and that the country is progressing steadily day by day.
He called on the nation to remain united and appreciative of Pakistan’s renewed international respect and ongoing economic recovery.
