Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has called for consistent national policies, stressing that Pakistan’s economic direction should not change with every political shift. Speaking at a dinner in honour of the business community, he highlighted the strong link between political stability and economic growth, saying Pakistan is the only country after the State of Madinah to be founded on the basis of the Kalma.
Dar, drawing on his years of experience in public office, congratulated the nation on Independence Day and reflected on past economic challenges. He said that while interest rates were significantly reduced in 2016, political interference in 2017 damaged the economy. He added that the following four years proved the harmful impact of such instability.
He said Pakistan had avoided default and was now adjusting policy rates. Addressing misinformation, Dar noted that false reports had discouraged key members of the business community, some of whom considered leaving the country. “We urged them to ignore rumours and stay committed,” he said.
Dar also recalled how two years ago, Pakistan faced diplomatic isolation, but international relations have now improved. He criticised the decision to open borders with Afghanistan “over a cup of tea,” saying it allowed Taliban entry and reversed progress in the fight against terrorism. He vowed to eliminate terrorism completely.
Speaking on foreign policy, Dar mentioned Pakistan’s clear stance against the attack on Iran, despite concerns over U.S. reaction. He said this principled position won appreciation from Iran’s parliament. On the Pahalgam attack, he said Pakistan offered full transparency and cooperated with international investigators. He praised the armed forces for giving a strong response to Indian aggression.
Dar concluded by expressing his vision of Pakistan becoming the fortress of Islam, as envisioned by Quaid-e-Azam, urging the nation to work towards that goal.
