Pakistan’s foreign policy has entered a new and dynamic phase, positioning the nation as an increasingly reliable and trusted global partner, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif announced on Monday, highlighting a period of renewed confidence and cooperation with key world powers.
Addressing a seminar organized by the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS), the Defence Minister detailed the country’s improving ties with nations including Saudi Arabia, the United States, China, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. He noted a significant rise in Saudi investment across multiple sectors of Pakistan’s economy.
Asif described the partnerships with Qatar and the UAE as “exemplary,” stating they are built on a foundation of mutual trust and understanding. These strengthening connections in the Gulf region underscore a significant shift in diplomatic engagement.
Reaffirming the country’s profound and enduring bond with China, the minister described Beijing as Pakistan’s “all-weather friend.” He confirmed that both nations are committed to accelerating work on the third phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which he termed a cornerstone of regional connectivity and economic progress.
The minister also pointed to enhanced connectivity with Central Asian states such as Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan, alongside growing collaboration with Turkey and Iran. He emphasized that Pakistan has emerged as an effective global voice against Islamophobia and is concentrating on reforms that project stability and forward-looking diplomacy.
‘Pakistan’s diplomacy today represents self-assurance and stability,’ Asif remarked. ‘Our diplomats are performing commendably in advancing the country’s interests, and foreign policy remains our top priority to strengthen relations with the world.’
Speaking at the same event, former Federal Minister Khurram Dastgir Khan observed that Pakistan has surmounted major security challenges, leading to an improvement in diplomatic engagement. He credited the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for restoring international confidence.
Dastgir highlighted that regional cooperation has broadened through platforms like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). ‘New partners are coming forward, seeking cooperation with Pakistan,’ he said, underscoring the country’s renewed diplomatic momentum. The seminar affirmed Pakistan’s evolving foreign policy direction, which is now grounded in economic diplomacy and global engagement based on shared development goals.