Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar said on Saturday that the United Arab Emirates is set to acquire shares in the Fauji Foundation as part of expanding economic cooperation between the two countries.
Addressing a press conference on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ annual performance, Dar said Pakistan’s proactive, principled, and firm stance on key global issues has earned recognition across international forums.
Referring to the recent visit of the UAE president, Dar said the planned investment would help Pakistan settle a $1 billion liability. In comparison, an additional $2 billion loan is expected to be rolled over. He described the development as a significant boost for Pakistan’s financial stability.
The deputy prime minister expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia, the UAE and China for their continued support through loans and financial assistance, which he said has helped stabilise Pakistan’s economy.
Highlighting progress on regional diplomacy, Dar said Pakistan’s relations with Bangladesh witnessed a “major thaw” during the year. He described his recent visit to Dhaka as extensive and productive, noting meetings with Bangladesh’s chief executive, foreign minister, advisers and political leaders, including Khaleda Zia, representatives of Jamaat-e-Islami, and student groups.
“An environment of goodwill has been created, and following the February elections, we will further engage with Bangladesh,” he said.
Dar also reiterated Pakistan’s principled position on the Gaza crisis and reaffirmed Islamabad’s continued support for a peaceful and just resolution of the Palestine issue.
Commenting on a recent protest linked to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf in the United Kingdom, Dar termed the incident a serious provocation, saying threats of violence were unacceptable under any circumstances.
He stressed that the UK government bears responsibility for preventing such actions and confirmed that Pakistan has formally conveyed its concerns through a diplomatic demarche, calling the step appropriate and necessary.
