Dar’s statement, made during a meeting with journalists at the Foreign Office, indicated that diplomatic progress requires a mutual effort from both countries. He explained that for normalisation of relations, both India and Pakistan must demonstrate a willingness to engage with each other.
Strengthening Ties with Regional Neighbours
Dar also discussed Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with its regional neighbours, including Bangladesh and Afghanistan. He announced his upcoming visit to Bangladesh in February 2025, a move aimed at rebuilding the relationship between Islamabad and Dhaka after the fall of the Hasina government in August 2024. Dar expressed his commitment to enhancing economic and trade cooperation between the two countries, describing Bangladesh as “a lost brother” in reference to the historical ties that had been strained in recent years.“Bangladesh is like a lost brother. We aim to strengthen economic and trade cooperation,” Dar said, noting that the invitation for the visit had been extended by Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Muhamad Yunus, following their meeting in Cairo.
Dar also rejected claims that Pakistan was diplomatically isolated, adding that the country’s foreign policy had evolved significantly under the PML-N government. “When we assumed office, there was a perception of diplomatic isolation. However, by expanding our diplomatic reach and engaging with regional neighbours, this perception has changed,” he asserted.
Pakistan’s Relations with Afghanistan and Ongoing Security Challenges
Turning to Afghanistan, Dar acknowledged the complexity of Pakistan’s relationship with Kabul, particularly regarding the security situation. He revealed that Pakistan has been grappling with an increase in terrorist activity, a situation exacerbated since the Afghan Taliban came to power in 2021. Dar highlighted the role of groups like the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which, although separate from the Afghan Taliban, has strong ties to the regime in Kabul.
Dar also criticised Pakistan’s former intelligence chief, General Faiz Hameed, for engaging in talks with the TTP, calling it a misguided effort. He noted that several planned visits to Kabul had been postponed due to ongoing terrorist attacks.
“Pakistan has been facing a spike in terrorist attacks since the Afghan Taliban came to power in 2021. We have urged Kabul to prevent militant groups from using Afghan soil to target Pakistan,” Dar said, stressing the importance of Afghanistan addressing these concerns.
Pakistan’s Progress in Nuclear Energy
In addition to regional diplomacy, Dar also shared news regarding Pakistan’s advancements in nuclear energy. He announced the launch of the Chashma 5 (C-5) nuclear power project, which had been finalised with China in 2023. This project follows the successful completion of the K2 and K3 nuclear plants and is a key component of Pakistan’s strategy to address its growing energy needs.
Clarification on Gwadar Port’s Role
Dar also addressed concerns surrounding the use of Gwadar port, particularly allegations that it could be utilised for military purposes. These rumours were dismissed by outgoing Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, who confirmed that the port was being developed for economic purposes with China’s support.
“Gwadar port is for Pakistan’s development, built with the support of China,” Baloch stated during her final briefing.
Since taking office, Dar and the PML-N government have focused on enhancing Pakistan’s diplomatic ties across the region, particularly with neighbouring countries like Bangladesh and Afghanistan. The relations with India, however, remain a significant challenge, with Pakistan reiterating its concerns over terrorism as a major hurdle in the path to rapprochement. In the broader context, Pakistan’s strategic partnerships, particularly with China, continue to shape its foreign policy, as evidenced by the ongoing infrastructure and energy projects like the Chashma nuclear plant and Gwadar port.
