Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Saturday said Pakistan’s foreign policy achieved enhanced global stature in 2025, attributing the progress to sustained diplomatic engagement and a balanced international outlook.
Addressing a news briefing in Islamabad, Dar highlighted the recent visit of United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, calling it a highly constructive engagement that strengthened bilateral ties. He said the visit reflected growing international confidence in Pakistan and underscored the depth of relations between Islamabad and Abu Dhabi.
According to Dar, the discussions with the UAE leadership covered cooperation across a range of sectors, including trade, investment, energy, banking and real estate. He noted that several agreements were signed during the visit, which he said would inject fresh momentum into economic collaboration and open new avenues for mutual growth.
“The improvement in Pakistan’s foreign relations is a blessing of God,” Dar said, adding that the country’s diplomatic standing had improved significantly on the global stage. He said Pakistan had received widespread international appreciation, which he described as validation of the government’s pragmatic and effective foreign policy approach.
Turning to regional security, Dar commented on relations with India, claiming that Pakistan’s armed forces had decisively responded during recent hostilities. He alleged that Pakistan had shot down seven Indian aircraft during the conflict and said the armed forces had demonstrated their capability and preparedness.
Dar accused India of levelling baseless allegations against Pakistan, including over the Pahalgam incident, and stressed that New Delhi must recognise the Indus Waters Treaty as an established and binding reality. He said Pakistan had exercised restraint despite provocations but retained the right to respond to aggression.
Referring to the attack on Nur Khan Airbase, Dar termed it a serious miscalculation by India and said Pakistan’s response was guided by a sound and effective strategy. He added that while Pakistan seeks peace and stability in the region, it would not compromise on its sovereignty or national security.
Dar reiterated that Pakistan has the full capability to defend itself and would respond decisively to any threat, while continuing to prioritise diplomacy and peaceful coexistence.
