FM Dar addresses Pakistani community in New York; Interior Minister meets PM

NEW YORK: Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar addressed the Pakistani community in New York, United States, and highlighted the economic and diplomatic developments in Pakistan.

He said that overseas Pakistanis are a national asset and credited the current government for stabilising the economy and avoiding default.

Dar said that economic indicators have improved over three years, with inflation falling and GDP growth increasing. He claimed international financial institutions acknowledge Pakistan’s economic progress, and attributed improvements to the government’s policies. Dar stated that “had the [previous] government of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) remained in power for six more months, Pakistan would have defaulted.” He noted that the no-confidence motion was a difficult but necessary step.

The Deputy PM also lauded Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s role in managing the economy, citing increasing foreign reserves and economic stability.

On foreign affairs, Dar said Pakistan is no longer diplomatically isolated, has strengthened regional ties, and improved relations with Afghanistan. He confirmed discussions with Afghan authorities on preventing cross-border terrorism and reiterated Pakistan’s intent to combat terrorism.

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On relations with the United States, Dar stated that efforts have been made for Aafia Siddiqui, including diplomatic and legal avenues. He mentioned past discussions with US officials, including Antony Blinken and President Obama, and said efforts are ongoing.

INTERIOR MINISTER MEETS PM OVER PILGRIMS POLICY

Meanwhile, back home in Pakistan, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held a meeting with PM Sharif to review pilgrim policy and Balochistan security situation.

Naqvi briefed the premier on the new policy for pilgrims. During the meeting, the Prime Minister directed the Aviation Minister to arrange special flights for pilgrims.

The session also included a briefing on the law and order situation in Balochistan. The Prime Minister instructed the Interior Minister to begin work on the Gwadar Safe City project.

Also read: India-sponsored terrorists will face humiliating death: Naqvi