Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar has reaffirmed that Pakistan is undergoing a strong economic revival and reasserting its presence on the global stage. Speaking at a nearly two-hour community event at the Pakistan Consulate in New York on Saturday, Dar briefed the Pakistani diaspora on the country’s political and economic turnaround.
He stated that despite numerous challenges over the past three years, Pakistan had made notable strides both economically and diplomatically. “We are a resilient nation. Against all odds, Pakistan has emerged stronger,” he remarked.
Dar shared that his meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio had been held in a cordial and constructive environment. “We discussed major regional and global matters, and I am confident that U.S.-Pakistan relations will continue to grow,” he said.
Also in attendance were Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, and Consul General Aamir Ahmed Atozai.
In his address, Dar underlined that Pakistan is no longer diplomatically isolated. He pointed to recent high-level engagements with leadership from China, the U.S., and several other countries as evidence of renewed confidence in Pakistan’s global standing.
He highlighted a sharp drop in inflation — from 40% to just 2.4% as of January 2025 — attributing this to successful economic reforms and consistent diplomatic efforts. Dar also emphasized the government’s completion of the IMF programme and the restoration of investor trust, which he said were reflected in improved credit ratings from international agencies.
Looking ahead, Dar expressed the government’s ambition to secure membership in the G20 bloc. He credited PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif for his continued guidance in shaping national and provincial governance, calling him a seasoned and visionary statesman.
He also discussed ongoing reforms under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), which aims to streamline and fast-track investments in priority sectors. On the aviation front, Dar confirmed that efforts are underway to resume PIA flights to New York, following the successful restoration of routes to Europe and the UK.
The deputy prime minister thanked the Pakistani-American community for their role in strengthening U.S.-Pakistan ties, as well as their unwavering support during times of crisis. He particularly praised their efforts during recent Pakistan–India tensions and acknowledged their commitment to promoting Pakistan’s interests abroad.
He received applause while recounting the events of the standoff with India, particularly the Pakistan Air Force’s downing of six Indian fighter jets. Dar praised Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir’s leadership during that period, calling it crucial to preserving national security and unity.
On the multilateral front, Dar proudly highlighted Pakistan’s presidency of the UN Security Council, supported by 182 member nations — a testament to Pakistan’s principled diplomacy. He cited the unanimous passage of a Pakistan-sponsored resolution advocating peaceful resolution of conflicts as a major diplomatic win.
Touching on regional dynamics, Dar said Pakistan is working to enhance trade and connectivity through Afghanistan and into Central Asia. He emphasized the expectation that Afghan territory will not be used for terrorism and acknowledged the assurances received from Afghan authorities.
Regarding humanitarian issues, Dar reiterated the government’s commitment to securing the release of Dr Aafia Siddiqui, currently imprisoned in the United States. He affirmed that sincere diplomatic efforts have been made and will continue in pursuit of her freedom, stating, “Dr Aafia is the daughter of Pakistan, and no one should have doubts about our resolve.”
Dar concluded with criticism of the previous PTI government, asserting that had it remained in power for six more months, Pakistan would have faced bankruptcy. “Now, the default threat is buried forever,” he declared confidently, pointing to the government’s achievements in stabilizing the economy and restoring international trust.
