Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) and its vision for achieving common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security in Asia. Delivering a detailed address at the 7th Ministerial Meeting of CICA, hosted virtually by Azerbaijan, Senator Dar emphasized the critical need for collective action, regional cooperation, and sustainable development to address Asia’s multifaceted challenges.
Acknowledging Leadership and CICA’s Role
Opening his statement, Senator Ishaq Dar extended his gratitude to Azerbaijan for assuming the CICA Chair and expressed confidence in its leadership to explore new avenues of cooperation. He also commended Kazakhstan, the outgoing Chair, for its contributions to advancing CICA’s objectives in recent years. Highlighting the significance of the forum, Senator Dar acknowledged CICA’s critical role in fostering cooperation, peace, and security across Asia.
Asia’s Strategic Importance
Senator Dar underscored the strategic importance of Asia, which is home to more than half of the global population and spans nearly a third of the earth’s landmass. As the global economic center of gravity continues to shift towards Asia, he stressed the need for inclusive regional transformation. “We must seize this moment of opportunity to strengthen political ties, pool economic resources, and ensure growth benefits reach all corners of our continent,” he stated.
However, he cautioned that persistent challenges, including political disputes, foreign occupations, poverty, illiteracy, and climate change, continue to hinder collective progress. Addressing these challenges, according to the Deputy Prime Minister, requires comprehensive and inclusive solutions grounded in mutual respect, dialogue, and adherence to international law.
Peaceful Resolution of Long-Standing Disputes
Reiterating Pakistan’s principled stance, Snator Ishaq Dar called for just and peaceful resolutions to long-standing regional disputes. He specifically highlighted the unresolved issues of Palestine and Jammu and Kashmir, underscoring the denial of self-determination to these regions as major impediments to regional peace and stability.
“Sustainable peace and security can only be achieved by addressing the root causes of conflict,” he stated, advocating for inclusive political solutions based on international law. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that these disputes must be resolved to unlock Asia’s true potential for prosperity and development.
Promoting Regional Connectivity and Economic Cooperation
A significant focus of Senator Dar’s address was on the importance of regional connectivity as a catalyst for economic integration and growth. He highlighted key initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) as transformative projects that can strengthen infrastructure, trade, and energy links across Asia.
He urged member states to view such initiatives not through “narrow political lenses” but as opportunities for shared growth and collective prosperity. Pakistan, he affirmed, remains committed to enhancing connectivity through CICA and other regional platforms to foster sustainable economic development.
People-to-People Ties and Cultural Exchanges
Senator Dar also emphasized the role of cultural exchanges and people-to-people ties in promoting mutual understanding and regional cooperation. “Mutual respect and understanding will lay the foundation for lasting cooperation, transcending borders and enriching our societies,” he noted. Pakistan’s commitment to fostering these exchanges within CICA’s framework reflects its dedication to deepening regional trust and solidarity.
Strengthening CICA’s Institutional Framework
Reaffirming Pakistan’s active role in CICA, Senator Dar highlighted the country’s recent initiatives, including the ratification of the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the CICA Secretariat and efforts to establish connections between Pakistan’s key research institutions and CICA’s Think Tank Forum. These steps, he emphasized, showcase Pakistan’s resolve to strengthen CICA’s institutional capabilities and promote deeper regional cooperation.
Collaboration with the United Nations
As a newly elected member of the United Nations Security Council (2025-2026), Pakistan looks forward to collaborating with UN Member States and regional organizations like CICA to advance global peace efforts. Senator Dar emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation between the UN Security Council and regional platforms like CICA to address conflicts, promote human rights, and ensure sustainable prosperity.
Call for Collective Action
Concluding his address, Senator Dar underscored that the challenges faced by Asia require collective action, shared responsibility, and unwavering commitment. Expressing optimism about the future, he stated, “Under Azerbaijan’s leadership and guided by our collective Asian Spirit, CICA will continue to grow stronger, making Asia a bastion of peace and prosperity.”
Pakistan’s Commitment to CICA
As a founding member of CICA, Pakistan remains steadfast in its support for the forum’s principles of peaceful dispute settlement, respect for territorial integrity, and non-use of force. Senator Dar reiterated that Pakistan will continue to play an active role in advancing CICA’s objectives of promoting regional peace, security, and development.
Conclusion
The 7th CICA Ministerial Meeting served as a pivotal platform for regional leaders to address common challenges, foster cooperation, and explore avenues for sustainable growth. Pakistan’s comprehensive statement, delivered by Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to CICA’s vision and underscored the need for collective efforts to build a peaceful, stable, and interconnected Asia.