Pakistan prevented India’s ‘false narrative’ from taking hold again: Dar

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Thursday asserted that Pakistan had successfully countered India’s attempts to propagate a “false narrative” similar to the one following the 2019 Pulwama incident, stating that New Delhi’s propaganda had “failed miserably” this time.

Speaking at a press briefing, Dar stated that Pakistan’s stance had been “truth-based” and recalled Islamabad’s offer for an impartial investigation after the Pulwama attack. “We are not cowards. Whatever we do, we do it openly,” he said, referring to Pakistan’s retaliatory airstrikes on May 10, which were conducted “in accordance with the UN Charter.”

The foreign minister warned that India’s “proxy tactics” continue unabated, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to eradicating terrorism. “Our position on terrorism is clear – we are determined to eliminate it root and branch,” he stated.

Dar also revealed that during his recent visit to China, counter-terrorism cooperation was discussed, with both countries agreeing to work alongside Afghanistan to combat the menace collectively. On the economic front, the minister shared that Pakistan had received a “positive response” from China regarding the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Earlier during the Senate session, Africa Friendship Resolution was passed to declare May 25 as “Pakistan-Africa Friendship Day. This is to strengthen ties with African nations, acknowledging their successful independence movement and showcase Pakistan’s UN peacekeeping contributions in Rwanda, Ghana, Ivory Coast and other African states

“Africa’s liberation struggles mirror our own values,” Dar stated, noting Pakistan’s deep historical connections with the continent.

FM’S VISIT TO CHINA

Reiterating the country’s stance, he said, “Pakistan’s position on terrorism is clear. We are trying to eradicate terrorism from the root.” He said that he talked about measures against terrorism during his visit to China as well. “We decided that Pakistan, China and Afghanistan will deal with terrorism together,” he added.

The deputy prime minister also said that Pakistan has received positive response regarding CPEC-2 from China. “China reiterated its support for Pakistan’s position regarding Kashmir again,” he said, adding that the next session of the Pak-China Strategic Dialogue will be held in Islamabad.

“The Chinese Foreign Minister was invited to visit Pakistan, which he accepted,” Dar said.

He said that during his recent visit to China, he held several meetings with Chinese officials and also participated in the trilateral meeting of the foreign ministers of Pakistan, China and Afghanistan. “Afghan refugees, regional situation and trade, among others Important issues were discussed,” he informed.

“Friendship with China began on May 21, 1951. Today the world looks at it with appreciation,” Ishaq Dar said, adding, “Pakistan will continue its diplomatic efforts for peace and stability in the region”.

The Chinese leadership expressed condolences to the families of our martyrs, Ishaq Dar said, adding that China has supported Pakistan’s sovereignty and integrity.

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