Pakistan has once again extended an offer for comprehensive talks with India, with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar making it clear that discussions will not be limited to a single-point agenda but will address all contentious issues, including the Kashmir dispute.
Pakistan reiterates desire for peace
Speaking in an informal conversation with senior journalists in Islamabad, Ishaq Dar said that despite tensions, Pakistan has consistently demonstrated a desire for peace. “Desire for peace, even after winning the war, is a characteristic of Pakistan,” he remarked.
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Dar confirmed that the ceasefire is being implemented, adding that India itself had approached the United States for mediation. “We received a call from the US, and I made it clear that Pakistan does not want war at all,” he said, while criticizing India for its “unnecessary war rhetoric.”
Talks only at a neutral venue
Clarifying Pakistan’s position, Dar said Islamabad did not request anyone to arrange talks with India. “We were asked to sit at a neutral location, and I said if the meeting is at a neutral venue, then we will do it,” he explained. He stressed that any dialogue must be comprehensive and inclusive of all outstanding disputes, particularly Kashmir.
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Upcoming diplomatic engagements
The foreign minister outlined his upcoming foreign policy schedule, which includes:
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A two-day visit to Bangladesh starting August 23, aimed at strengthening ties between the two countries.
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Participation in an emergency meeting of OIC Foreign Ministers in Jeddah on August 25.
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Traveling to China on August 30 with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) conference.
Dar also clarified that the visit of the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Pakistan has not yet been finalized.
