Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar has welcomed the adoption of the Manila Plan of Action 2026-2036 and reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to its effective implementation.

He was addressing the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum Ministerial Meeting in Manila, Philippines today.

Ishaq Dar reiterated that Pakistan remains firmly committed to the objectives and principles of the ASEAN Regional Forum. He also called for renewing collective resolve to build a peaceful, inclusive, and resilient region where sovereign equality, mutual respect, and dialogue remain the foundation of our shared future.

He said as we also commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, Pakistan also stands firmly committed to its cardinal principles of dialogue, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.

The Deputy Prime Minister said the ASEAN Regional Forum has established itself as an indispensable pillar of the regional security architecture. He said in an increasingly complex strategic environment, the ASEAN Regional Forum must continue to strengthen its preventive diplomacy role by remaining dynamic, forward-looking, and focused on practical action.

Turning to the situation in the Middle East, the Deputy Prime Minister said the unfortunate developments in the Gulf region have seriously impacted all of our countries. He said Pakistan did everything within its capacity to help restore peace and stability in the region, and continues to do so.

Ishaq Dar deeply appreciated the confidence entrusted in Pakistan by the United States, Iran, Gulf countries, and all friends to steer these efforts.

He said these hard-earned achievements through dialogue and diplomacy have created a valuable opportunity to advance lasting peace.

The Deputy Prime Minister said Pakistan remains committed to making every effort to establish peace and stability in the region.

He urged all parties to exercise restraint, uphold their commitments and pursue peaceful engagement.

Ishaq Dar said Pakistan remains hopeful that these efforts will contribute to regional stability, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the resumption of normal shipping.

He said the international community must continue to support and reinforce these efforts through sustained dialogue, diplomacy and constructive engagement to help achieve lasting peace and stability in the region and beyond.

Mentioning the situation in Indian Illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the Deputy Prime Minister said the continued failure to resolve long-standing disputes, particularly the Jammu and Kashmir dispute between India and Pakistan, remains at the heart of regional instability. He said Pakistan continues to advocate a just and peaceful settlement in accordance with the UN Charter, relevant Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

He said Pakistan also remains deeply concerned by India's illegal unilateral decision to place the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, seeking to weaponize water resources in violation of its international obligations. He said Pakistan couldn't afford to let this serious provocative development remain unaddressed.

The Deputy Prime Minister urged the entire international community, particularly the ASEAN Regional Forum members, to support a peaceful resolution of these core issues and uphold international law.

About war on terrorism, Ishaq Dar said Pakistan, despite all odds, is determined to fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. He said this is a long-term commitment that requires sustained national efforts and enhanced international cooperation.

He called upon the Afghan Taliban regime and all abettors of terrorism in the region to refrain from allowing Afghan territory to be used against its neighbours or anyone else. He also urged ASEAN Regional Forum members to support efforts aimed at ensuring that Afghan territory is not used to threaten regional peace and security.