While strongly condemning the recent terrorist attacks in Wana and Islamabad that claimed 15 lives, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Wednesday reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to dialogue and diplomacy as the essential path to global peace and stability.
Addressing the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC) in Islamabad, Dar asserted that such “cowardly acts” would never shake the nation’s resolve to eliminate the menace of terrorism, stating that Pakistan ‘categorically rejects terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.’
“Dialogue has always been our preferred instrument for stability and progress,” the Deputy Prime Minister declared during the second day of the three-day international event. He noted that the presence of parliamentarians from around the world signified a collective belief that cooperation is the most certain route to prosperity.
Dar emphasized that modern diplomacy extends beyond traditional channels, gaining strength from public awareness and parliamentary engagement. ‘Parliamentary diplomacy complements traditional diplomacy by bringing the people’s voice into international discourse,’ he remarked.
The Foreign Minister highlighted significant global challenges, including strained trust in multilateral institutions, geopolitical rivalries, the climate crisis, and widening inequalities, which he said give forums like the ISC exceptional importance. ‘Multilateralism must not only be preserved but revitalised through openness, inclusion, and the active participation of people’s representatives,’ he urged.
He commended the role of parliamentarians in converting international commitments into domestic actions, simplifying regulations, and fostering innovation to guarantee inclusive growth.
Reiterating Pakistan’s allegiance to the principles of the UN Charter, Dar stated that the nation’s foreign policy consistently advocates for regional cooperation, conflict prevention, and equitable development.
He pointed to Pakistan’s leadership at the United Nations, recalling its presidency of the UN Security Council in July 2025, where it led the unanimous adoption of a resolution on strengthening mechanisms for peaceful dispute settlement.
‘Pakistan’s experience uniquely positions it as a bridge between the Global South and the Global North – between regions and civilizations,’ Dar stated, advocating for a future international order defined by equitable partnerships rather than hierarchies.
In his concluding remarks, Dar called on participants to renew their faith in dialogue and cooperation. He affirmed that Pakistan stands ready to continue its role as a “bridge-builder” to amplify the voices of the developing world and promote peace through justice.