Pakistan to Safeguard Its Legitimate Rights Under IWT: Dar

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has said Pakistan will “firmly safeguard its legitimate rights under the Indus Waters Treaty” and oppose any attempt to weaponise water. He was speaking at the Margalla Dialogue 2026 in Islamabad, and said regional stability also depends on respect for treaty obligations.

Kashmir

Dar said a just resolution of the Kashmir dispute under UN Security Council resolutions “remains indispensable for lasting peace in South Asia.” He said leaving the dispute unresolved perpetuates mistrust.

Defence and Security

Dar referred to what he called India’s unprovoked aggression in May last year, and said Pakistan remains ready to defend its sovereignty. He described the Makkah Joint Defense Agreement with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye as defensive and not directed against any country. On Afghanistan, he said Afghan territory must not be used for attacks on other countries, particularly Pakistan.

Diplomacy on the US-Iran Conflict

Dar said Pakistan is pursuing diplomacy to restore dialogue and return the parties to the negotiating table. He called the Islamabad MoU an important foundation for further talks.

Foreign Relations

Dar called the partnership with China a cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy. He said Pakistan is engaging the United States and strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt, Iran, the Gulf, Europe, Central Asia and others.