ASEAN Regional Forum: Deputy PM Ishaq Dar Calls for Urgent Resolution of Kashmir Dispute and Gulf Crisis

The 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum Ministerial Meeting recently took place in Manila, Philippines, where Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar addressed the gathering, emphasizing the pressing need for international cooperation to resolve key regional conflicts. Dar highlighted eight major challenges threatening global and regional security, including the unresolved Jammu and Kashmir dispute, the Gulf situation, Gaza, counter-terrorism, Afghanistan, Ukraine, the South China Sea, and climate change. He stressed that the failure to resolve long-standing disputes, particularly the Jammu and Kashmir dispute between India and Pakistan, has accelerated serious regional stability issues. The deputy prime minister also expressed deep concern over India's unilateral decision to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, warning that this move violates international obligations and threatens the lives and livelihoods of 250 million people in Pakistan. Dar urged the international community, particularly ARF members, to address these arbitrary, illegal, and unilateral actions and uphold international law. He reaffirmed Pakistan's role in facilitating peace and de-escalation, citing Islamabad's diplomatic efforts in the Gulf region. The deputy prime minister also addressed the humanitarian crisis in the occupied Palestinian territory, condemning the atrocities in Gaza and reiterating Pakistan's steadfast support for an independent, sovereign, and contiguous State of Palestine. Furthermore, Dar highlighted Pakistan's immense sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and urged the Afghan Taliban regime to ensure its territory is not exploited by terrorist groups. He reaffirmed Pakistan's stance on other global priorities, including support for diplomatic resolutions in Ukraine and the South China Sea, while reiterating Pakistan's firm adherence to the One-China policy. The deputy prime minister also emphasized the need for international cooperation to address climate change, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, food and energy security, disaster resilience, and public health preparedness.