Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has termed his recent three-day visit to China as highly productive, stating that Pakistan made notable advancements in diplomatic, strategic, and economic arenas during engagements in Beijing.
In a press briefing, Dar emphasized that the visit was far from a routine diplomatic exercise. He held focused bilateral discussions with Chinese officials and participated in trilateral talks involving Afghanistan, all with specific and urgent objectives.
He announced that a mutual understanding had been reached among Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan that no militant group—including the TTP, BLA, or any other—would be allowed to operate from one country’s territory against another.
Touching on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Phase II, Dar said, “We’ve effectively laid the foundation for broader collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative.”
He also revealed that China had expressed a willingness to fund the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Uzbekistan railway line, describing it as a game-changing project for regional connectivity. “A draft framework has already been shared with Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, and we aim to finalize it by early June,” he said.
Coordination and funding for the railway project were discussed directly with Chinese authorities, who responded positively. Dar said that this initiative, alongside the Peshawar-Kabul Highway and ML-1 railway upgrades, would significantly enhance Pakistan’s links to Central Asia and unlock the potential of its underutilized ports.
On the issue of security, Dar acknowledged China’s concerns about attacks on its nationals in Pakistan and assured that the Pakistani government is taking these threats seriously. Discussions also focused on setting up a permanent mechanism to curb cross-border terrorism. “I appreciate the alignment of China and Afghanistan with Pakistan’s zero-tolerance approach,” he said.
Recalling the earlier government’s efforts, Dar highlighted that over $4 billion was spent on Operation Zarb-e-Azb from 2013 to 2017, effectively countering terrorism. He criticized the previous administration’s lax border policies and the release of dangerous militants, vowing a renewed, uncompromising approach to combat terrorism.
Dar also noted that the Chinese leadership reaffirmed their support for Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and backed its stance on the Kashmir dispute, urging a resolution according to UN Security Council resolutions. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the One China Policy, including recognition of Tibet.
Celebrating the 74th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China, Dar invited Chinese officials to Islamabad for the second round of the Pakistan–China Strategic Dialogue, following the first session held in Beijing.
He also shared that the Chinese Minister for International Development and a senior Communist Party leader appreciated Pakistan’s international outreach and proposed the creation of a Global Political Parties Forum, hosted by China. Dar noted that Pakistan would be represented by a senator from the PML-N at the upcoming session beginning May 24.
Commenting on the recent regional conflict sparked by Indian aggression, Dar stated that Pakistan effectively countered India’s narrative, particularly concerning the events of 2019. He revealed that Pakistan offered an international investigation into the Pahalgam incident, which India refused. This transparency, according to Dar, earned Pakistan international credibility, with several global actors validating its version of events.
Dar condemned the Indian strikes, disclosing that approximately 75 Indian aircraft were launched, with 24 payloads dropped. He confirmed that Pakistan shot down several aircraft, including Rafales and a drone. “Our response was in broad daylight and in accordance with the UN Charter. It was the action of a sovereign, responsible state,” he asserted.
He confirmed that the ceasefire, brokered following a call from U.S. Secretary of State Rubio, was holding, with military communications through DGMOs functioning smoothly. “Our deterrent capability is defensive. Our nuclear and missile programs are intended for peace and protection—not aggression,” he added.
Responding to provocative statements from the Indian Defence Minister, Dar said Pakistan remains committed to peace but will defend its sovereignty with full force when challenged.
He also discussed Pakistan’s efforts to enhance ties with Afghanistan, citing shared religious, cultural, and geographical connections. “Our outreach was welcomed by Afghan stakeholders. It’s time to move beyond limited diplomatic engagement and build substantive relations,” he said.
Dar announced that Pakistan had extended the transit document facility for Afghan vehicles until June 30 and introduced a $100 multiple-entry visa for Afghan citizens. These measures, he noted, were warmly welcomed by Afghan officials.
He congratulated Field Marshal Asim Munir on his promotion, calling it a well-earned recognition of his leadership in national security matters.
Finally, Dar revealed that he had made more than 60 calls to international counterparts, including deputy prime ministers and foreign leaders, to convey Pakistan’s position during recent tensions with India. “The world now better understands that Pakistan is not only on the frontline against terrorism but also one of its most affected victims—having lost over 85,000 lives and suffered $150 billion in economic damage,” he concluded.
