Pakistan set to assume key roles in multilateral forums: Ishaq Dar

ISLAMABAD, Jun 24 (APP):Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Wednesday said Pakistan is set to assume key roles in upcoming multilateral forums, including chair positions in regional organisations, reflecting growing international confidence in the country’s diplomatic engagement.

Speaking in the National Assembly, he said Pakistan’s diplomatic standing is also reflected in its participation in regional and international platforms, including Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) meetings, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation) forums, and ECO-related cooperation frameworks.

He said Pakistan’s growing diplomatic profile is evident in its increasing participation in high-level global forums and its role in hosting or co-chairing international events, including upcoming OIC women-related conferences and SCO meetings.

He added that Pakistan’s leadership role in these organisations highlights its active engagement in global and Muslim world affairs.

Referring to regional strategic developments, including defence and security understandings with friendly countries, he said Pakistan’s foreign policy is guided by cooperation, stability, and regional connectivity.

He said that Pakistan continues to pursue economic integration initiatives, including cross-border trade and market connectivity with neighbouring countries, particularly Iran.

Dar further said Pakistan has consistently advocated peaceful engagement in regional conflicts and supported dialogue-based solutions, adding that efforts are aimed at strengthening economic ties, expanding trade volumes, and enhancing regional stability through structured cooperation frameworks.

He said recent diplomatic achievements reflect sustained efforts by the government, the Foreign Office, and the country’s leadership, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, adding that these developments demonstrate increasing international trust in Pakistan’s constructive role in global affairs.

Briefing the House on the US-Iran peace agreement, he said Pakistan made extensive diplomatic efforts during a period of heightened tensions and played a mediating role by maintaining continuous contact with international counterparts and facilitating dialogue.

He said a series of meetings were held, including discussions in Islamabad and Riyadh.

He said Pakistan’s efforts were focused on de-escalation at a time when tensions between the United States and Iran were high.

Dar said Pakistan acted as a neutral facilitator, ensuring confidentiality of discussions between the parties.

He added that sensitive documents were not shared publicly or with third parties without the consent of both sides to preserve the credibility and trust of the mediation process.

He further stated that a breakthrough was achieved after prolonged rounds of negotiations, with Pakistan facilitating communication between the two sides, followed by multiple rounds of technical and policy-level discussions in April, May, and June.

He said the second phase of the process involved technical negotiations on sensitive issues, including sanctions-related matters, frozen assets, and regional conflict zones.

He also referred to broader regional tensions involving Lebanon and Iran, stating that Pakistan supported continued engagement to prevent escalation.

Dar further said Pakistan’s role continued after the signing, with follow-up consultations involving multiple parties, including the United States, Iran, Qatar, and Pakistan, leading to a joint statement issued on 22 June.

He added that the process reflected effective diplomatic coordination and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to constructive engagement in regional peace efforts.

He added that Pakistan continues to receive multiple international invitations and is increasingly being recognized as an active diplomatic player.