Pakistan open to talks if India demonstrates genuine seriousness: Dar.

Key Points from Deputy PM Ishaq Dar’s Press Conference on Pakistan-India Relations and Regional Diplomacy

1. Conditional Readiness for Talks with India

   • Pakistan is not in a hurry to engage in dialogue with India but is open to talks if New Delhi demonstrates seriousness.

   • Dar emphasized that any dialogue must be bilateral, rejecting third-party mediation or pressure. He stated, “When India is ready, we will also be ready” .

2. Ceasefire and US Mediation

   • The recent ceasefire along the LoC was brokered after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio facilitated communication. India agreed first, followed by Pakistan .

   • Dar criticized India’s defense minister for dismissing the ceasefire as a “trailer,” asserting that true honor lies in peace .

3. Kashmir Dispute and China’s Support

   • Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s stance that Kashmir is the core issue of regional tension, a position backed by China .

   • He accused India of fabricating narratives and claimed Pakistan has successfully countered India’s propaganda globally .

4. Trilateral Cooperation with China & Afghanistan

   • Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan agreed to deepen counter-terrorism efforts and prevent their territories from being used for terrorism .

   • Plans to extend CPEC-II into Afghanistan, including infrastructure projects like the Peshawar-Kabul highway, aim to enhance regional connectivity .

5. Economic and Infrastructure Developments

   • CPEC Phase-II will include motorways (Karachi-Hyderabad-Sukkur) and rail links to Central Asia, boosting Gwadar Port’s role .

   • China is establishing an International Mediation Organization (modeled after AIIB) in Hong Kong to address regional disputes .

6. Criticism of SAARC and Call for BRI Integration

   • Dar blamed India’s “monopolistic attitude” for SAARC’s failure and proposed integrating South Asian nations into China’s BRI for stronger regional cooperation .

7. Security and Counter-Terrorism

   • Dar condemned the Khuzdar school bus attack and vowed to eliminate terrorists, reiterating that Afghan soil must not be used against Pakistan .

   • A new visa policy for Afghan refugees (1-year multiple-entry for $100) was announced to streamline registration .

Pakistan’s diplomatic strategy under Dar focuses on conditional engagement with India, bolstering ties with China and Afghanistan, and advancing economic connectivity through CPEC. While open to dialogue, Islamabad insists on bilateralism and Kashmir’s resolution as prerequisites for lasting peace. Meanwhile, infrastructure and counter-terrorism collaborations aim to stabilize the region and counter Indian influence.