Pakistan has reiterated its appeal for the thorough execution of the Islamabad memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on June 18, emphasizing to Washington that this agreement represents the sole viable route toward achieving peace and stability in the region. This stance was also communicated to the United Kingdom.
Despite the national holiday marking Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day on Friday, the office of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar remained operational. During this time, US Charge d’Affaires Natalie A Baker met with him, underscoring the importance of ongoing diplomatic dialogue.
Pakistan’s message to the United States comes amid heightened tensions, as US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned of unprecedented economic isolation measures against Iran expected to be announced next week. The foreign minister acknowledged the positive progress in Pakistan-US relations and stressed the critical role of dialogue and diplomacy in securing lasting peace. He insisted that faithful implementation of the Islamabad MoU is the only way forward.
Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to regional peace and security while protecting its national interests. Discussions focused on Pakistan-US bilateral cooperation and recent developments in the region. The US Chargé praised Pakistan’s constructive efforts in promoting regional stability and extended congratulations to Dar on Pakistan’s Independence Day.
Following this meeting, UK High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott called on the foreign minister. Their talks included recent regional and international developments. Dar reiterated that all parties must implement the Islamabad MoU fully and emphasized that dialogue and diplomacy remain essential to resolving outstanding issues. He also highlighted the positive momentum in Pakistan-UK relations, referencing his recent meeting with UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband at the ASEAN Regional Forum in Manila, and underscored the need for sustained high-level engagement to deepen bilateral cooperation.
Additionally, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong met with Dar, during which condolences were expressed over the death of a Chinese mountaineer in an avalanche at Broad Peak in Gilgit-Baltistan. Pakistan assured full support in facilitating the return of the deceased’s remains. Ambassador Jiang appreciated Pakistan’s swift assistance and support following the tragedy. The two exchanged views on regional matters and mutual interests, with Jiang extending warm Independence Day congratulations and reaffirming the longstanding close ties between China and Pakistan.
Earlier, Foreign Minister Dar held a telephone conversation with his Egyptian counterpart Badr Abdelatty. The Egyptian minister conveyed warm Independence Day greetings to Pakistan’s leadership, government, and people, wishing for continued peace, progress, and prosperity. Both leaders reaffirmed the strong, brotherly relations between their countries and committed to enhancing cooperation across various sectors through increased high-level exchanges and institutional engagement. They also discussed regional and international developments of mutual concern and agreed to maintain close communication.
