Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that Pakistan’s foreign policy has entered a new phase, with relations improving with the United States, China, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Addressing a seminar organised by the Institute of Regional Studies in Islamabad, he said Pakistan is now emerging as a reliable partner on the global stage. “Pakistan’s relations with Saudi Arabia have entered a new era,” he said, adding that Saudi investment across various sectors is increasing.
Khawaja Asif said Pakistan’s ties with Qatar and the UAE are being described as exemplary, based on mutual trust and understanding. “China is Pakistan’s all-weather friend, and both countries are determined to accelerate work on Phase III of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC),” he added.
He said Pakistan’s access to Central Asian countries, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan has improved significantly, while relations with Turkey and Iran are also being strengthened. “Pakistan has emerged as an effective voice against Islamophobia. The country is focusing on reforms, and its diplomacy reflects confidence and stability,” he said.
The Defence Minister further stated that Pakistan’s relations with the United States have also improved. “Our diplomats are doing commendable work. Foreign policy is our priority, and we aim to further strengthen ties with the world,” he said.
Former federal minister Khurram Dastgir Khan, addressing the same event, said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had planned an attack on Pakistan, “but we emerged victorious.” He added that Pakistan’s diplomacy has visibly improved, and many diplomats have performed exceptionally well in their individual capacities.
He said regional connectivity has increased through the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. “Pakistan’s leadership has changed; the country is now being led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir. Many international partners are approaching Pakistan for cooperation,” he said.
Khurram Dastgir added that the spirit of leadership has transformed. “The world is astonished by China’s technological advancement, and global dynamics have changed. After Maraka-e-Haq, Pakistan has transformed the international environment. Our diplomats have succeeded in reshaping geopolitics,” he remarked.
