Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar urged the international community to sustain US-Iran peace efforts during the ASEAN Regional Forum in Manila. He said continued dialogue was essential for regional stability and lasting peace. Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to diplomatic engagement.
Addressing the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum Ministerial Meeting, Dar said Pakistan had done everything within its capacity to support peace. He urged all parties to honour their commitments and avoid actions that could undermine recent diplomatic progress. “We must not let this opportunity slip through our hands,” he said.
Read more: Ishaq Dar praises US–Iran negotiations
According to the Foreign Office, Dar highlighted Pakistan’s role in facilitating the recent ceasefire process. He said the Islamabad Talks and the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding reflected successful diplomacy. Pakistan also appreciated the trust placed in its mediation efforts by regional and international partners.
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Statement by the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister of Pakistan Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 at the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting, Manila, Philippines (23 July 2026)
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— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) July 23, 2026
Meanwhile, Dar expressed hope that continued diplomacy would help reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restore normal shipping. He called for sustained international support through dialogue and constructive engagement. He also welcomed the adoption of the ASEAN Manila Plan of Action 2026-2036.
Additionally, Dar raised concerns over the Jammu and Kashmir dispute and India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. He described the move as a threat to regional stability and urged the international community to uphold international law. He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for a peaceful resolution of both issues.
Read more: Pakistan, Saudi Arabia urge restraint amid renewed US–Iran tensions
The foreign minister also addressed the humanitarian situation in Gaza and reiterated Pakistan’s support for an independent Palestinian state. Moreover, he reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to combating terrorism and called on the Afghan Taliban to prevent Afghan territory from being used for attacks against neighbouring countries.
Dar also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for peaceful solutions to disputes in Ukraine and the South China Sea. He urged greater international cooperation on climate change and regional security. He concluded by calling for stronger dialogue, mutual respect and cooperation among ASEAN Regional Forum members.