At the Regional Dialogue 2025 hosted by the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS), Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar asserted Pakistan’s strong commitment to peace, justice, and international cooperation, while issuing a stern warning to India against provocations and unfounded allegations.

Dar emphasized that Pakistan remains a responsible and peace-seeking nation, yet will respond with firmness and proportionality if faced with aggression. “Our desire for peace must not be construed as weakness,” he stated, adding that Pakistan condemns terrorism in all its forms, without exception.

Dar strongly criticized the rising Islamophobic discourse in India, particularly the targeting of Muslims and Kashmiris. He also addressed India’s move to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it a serious breach of international law and a direct threat to regional stability.

“Pakistan considers the act of threatening to stop water as tantamount to an act of war. We will not give up even a drop of water,” he declared.

The Deputy PM stressed that the Kashmir dispute remains the core issue behind recurring tensions between Pakistan and India. He urged for a development-oriented foreign policy that upholds justice, dignity, and multilateral cooperation.

“Pakistan does not seek conflict. We seek coexistence,” he added.

In his welcome address, Ambassador Jauhar Saleem, President of IRS, emphasized the urgent need for regional cooperation amid growing climate, economic, and security challenges. Referring to the recent Pahalgam attack, Saleem stated that Pakistan had offered to participate in an impartial investigation, underscoring its openness and willingness to build trust through truth.

“We have nothing to fear from the truth,” he remarked, highlighting IRS’s commitment to promoting evidence-based policy and constructive dialogue in South Asia.