In a recent session of the National Assembly, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to engaging in constructive and meaningful negotiations with India to address longstanding issues, notably the Kashmir dispute. He emphasized the necessity for India to foster a conducive environment for dialogue, citing the ongoing situation in Kashmir as a significant obstacle.

Key Points from the Foreign Minister’s Address:

  • Responsibility in Bilateral Relations: Despite existing challenges, Pakistan has maintained a responsible stance in its interactions with India, ensuring the continuation of the ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC).
  • Kartarpur Corridor Agreement: In October 2024, Pakistan renewed the Kartarpur Corridor agreement with India for an additional five years, underscoring its dedication to promoting people-to-people connections and religious tourism.

Regional Security Concerns:

Addressing the situation in Afghanistan, Foreign Minister Dar expressed concerns over terrorist groups operating from Afghan territory, which pose challenges to Pakistan-Afghanistan relations. He acknowledged that efforts to resolve these security issues have yet to yield substantial results.

Recent Developments in Pakistan-India Relations:

In October 2024, Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar visited Pakistan to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Islamabad. This marked the first visit by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan in nearly a decade and was seen as a constructive step towards improving strained relations. Former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif described the visit as a “good beginning,” emphasizing the importance of continued dialogue.

Conclusion:

Pakistan’s proactive approach to engaging in constructive talks with India reflects a commitment to resolving critical issues and fostering regional stability. The renewal of agreements like the Kartarpur Corridor and the maintenance of the LoC ceasefire are positive indicators of this ongoing diplomatic effort.