Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated that critical decisions made “over a cup of tea” led to the influx of 35,000 to 40,000 members of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) into Pakistan.
According to a report by Pak Observer, in a briefing on Thursday, Dar raised concerns about the policies of the previous government, questioning how such a large number of TTP members were allowed to enter the country and who facilitated their return.
“Who opened the borders and freed TTP members over a cup of tea?” Dar asked, highlighting the negative impact these policies had on the nation’s security. He also asserted that Pakistan’s diplomatic isolation has ended, crediting the government’s active engagement both bilaterally and multilaterally.
“No one can now claim that Pakistan is isolated,” Dar told reporters in Islamabad, emphasizing the country’s efforts to expand its diplomatic reach. He noted that Pakistan’s election to the UN Security Council as a non-permanent member for the eighth time demonstrated its improved standing.
“Pakistan has assumed the seat and will fully play its role in collaboration with other member states,” he said. Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to combating terrorism and stressed the importance of enhancing trade and economic ties with Afghanistan to improve connectivity with Central Asia.
Regarding trade with India, he said, “It takes two to tango,” urging India to create an environment conducive to better relations. “Pakistan is ready, provided there is goodwill from the Indian side. It must be a two-sided effort.”
Dar expressed satisfaction with Pakistan’s economic progress, noting a decrease in inflation to 5%, alongside rising exports and remittances. He emphasized that as a nuclear and missile power, Pakistan is steadily securing its place in the global community.
