Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar announced on Monday that Pakistan is open to engaging in trade talks with India. In an interview on Samaa TV, he expressed optimism regarding the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting taking place in Pakistan, countering claims that the country is facing global diplomatic isolation.
Dar reflected on Pakistan’s economic struggles, stating, “Whenever we aim to emerge as an economic power, efforts have been made to drag the country down.”
He proposed the establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission focused on economic issues, questioning how the country’s economy, once ranked 24th, has now fallen to 47th.
Addressing constitutional amendments, Dar emphasized that there is no urgency to pursue them at this time. He criticized opposition parties, asserting that the current government is not inept like its predecessors.
He questioned why no action had been taken against those linked to terrorism during the previous administration.
He remarked that it is irrelevant whether constitutional amendments are discussed before a new judge, asserting that many of the nation’s problems can be traced back to a significant public gathering in Lahore in 2011.
Dar cautioned against a mindset of superiority over the country, highlighting the need for unity and cooperation.
On a positive note, he pointed out that the nation is experiencing a decline in inflation, signaling a potential economic revival. Dar also addressed international issues, stating that Pakistan is actively supporting Palestine and Lebanon at the governmental level, with the Prime Minister having established a relief fund for both regions. This reflects Pakistan’s commitment to humanitarian efforts amidst ongoing regional crises.
