Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Finance Minister, denied Pakistan’s involvement in the 2019 Pulwama attack, calling for evidence. The attack, blamed on the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed, escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.. He highlighted Pakistan’s immense sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, including the loss of 80,000 lives and over $150 billion in economic damages. Dar called for comprehensive dialogue between India and Pakistan to address key issues like terrorism, trade, and Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing that both sides must engage in good faith.
Dar also rejected India’s claims of Pakistani attacks on military installations and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace. For meaningful dialogue, he argued, both sides need to address all contentious issues.
U.S.-Pakistan Relations: Beyond Transactional Cooperation
Ishaq Dar expressed optimism about U.S.-Pakistan relations, noting they are stabilizing after past fluctuations.. He emphasized that Pakistan wants to build a long-term, strategic partnership with the U.S., moving beyond temporary, crisis-driven cooperation. On trade, Dar sees significant opportunities, especially in minerals, with Pakistan’s reserves valued at $6-8 trillion. He also mentioned a pending deal between the U.S. and Pakistan focused on minerals, particularly offshore gas exploration.
Economic Recovery and Investment Potential
Pakistan has been recovering from past economic instability, and Dar sees significant investment potential, particularly in artificial intelligence, mining, and natural resources. Dar pointed to the long presence of American multinationals in Pakistan as proof of the country’s business opportunities.. With improving macroeconomic conditions, Dar reassures investors that Pakistan is poised for growth.
Terrorism and Domestic Politics
Dar expressed concern over the resurgence of TTP, acknowledging past mistakes like releasing militants but reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to combating terrorism. He also stressed the importance of an independent judiciary and respecting legal processes regarding Imran Khan’s arrest.
Afghanistan and Kashmir: Upholding International Principles
On Afghanistan, Dar stated that Pakistan is open to engaging diplomatically with the Taliban, but only in ways that benefit Afghanistan. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the self-determination of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, in line with UN resolutions, calling for the international community to honor its commitments.
Gaza Crisis: A Call for Action
Dar condemned the humanitarian situation in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire and a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders. He criticized Israel’s annexation of the West Bank and expressed frustration with the failure of international institutions to uphold global law. He urged the international community to act decisively to end the suffering and restore peace.
Key Takeaways
India-Pakistan Dialogue: Pakistan is ready for talks on terrorism, trade, and Kashmir but insists on sincere engagement from both sides.
U.S.-Pakistan Relations: Dar seeks a long-term, strategic partnership, particularly in trade and energy.
Economic Growth: Pakistan offers major opportunities for U.S. investment, particularly in minerals and natural resources.
Terrorism and Domestic Politics: Pakistan remains committed to tackling terrorism and stresses the importance of an independent judiciary in political cases.
Afghanistan and Kashmir: Pakistan supports Afghanistan’s sovereignty and Kashmiris’ right to self-determination.
Gaza Crisis: Dar calls for immediate international action to address the humanitarian crisis and work toward a two-state solution.
