Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, commended the Pakistani diaspora’s significant role in bolstering Pakistan-US relations.

Addressing Pakistani-Americans in New York, he praised their contributions to enhancing Pakistan’s global image and acknowledged their support during recent tensions with India, particularly their advocacy for the Kashmiri people.

Dar updated the audience on Pakistan’s economic resurgence, emphasizing the successful completion of the IMF program, curbing inflation, and renewed investor trust. He noted positive assessments from global credit rating agencies and reiterated the government’s ambition for Pakistan to ascend to the G-20. The minister underscored Pakistan’s re-emergence from diplomatic isolation, citing increased international engagement, including high-level visits and multilateral efforts.

Pakistan’s current United Nations Security Council Presidency and two-year non-permanent membership, secured with overwhelming international support, were highlighted as evidence of global confidence in the nation’s diplomacy. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to peaceful conflict resolution, including the Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine issues, aligned with UN resolutions. Regarding regional affairs, Dar emphasized Pakistan’s engagement with Afghanistan to improve connectivity via trade routes to Central Asia. He conveyed Pakistan’s expectation that Afghanistan prevent terrorist activities originating within its borders, citing recent assurances from Afghan officials.

The minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and regional stability, referencing the nation’s resolute response during ‘Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos,’ which resulted in the downing of Indian aircraft. He lauded the unity displayed by the nation and the diaspora during that period. Dar assured the community of the government’s efforts to reinstate Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights, including restoring routes to Europe and the UK, adhering to international aviation standards.

He outlined governmental initiatives, notably the Special Investment Facilitation Council, aimed at simplifying investment processes and creating opportunities in key sectors. Dar urged the diaspora to contribute to Pakistan’s progress through investment, trade, education, and technological advancements. He reiterated the government’s commitment to partnering with Pakistani-Americans in national development and strengthening Pakistan-US cooperation.