Islamabad: Pakistan commemorated the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq, a pivotal event symbolizing national unity and resilience, while emphasizing its ongoing diplomatic initiatives to foster regional peace. The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Ishaq Dar, highlighted the operation’s alignment with international law and the need for resolving the Jammu and Kashmir dispute for regional stability. The government also continues to mediate between Iran and the United States to halt Project Freedom in the Strait of Hormuz, underscoring its commitment to peace and dialogue.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Deputy Prime Minister briefed the Diplomatic Corps on the significance of Marka-e-Haq and Pakistan’s lawful response under Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos. The briefing stressed the centrality of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute to regional instability and cautioned against unilateral actions on the Indus Waters Treaty. The Deputy Prime Minister also emphasized Pakistan’s role in supporting ceasefire efforts in the Middle East and Gulf region.
Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts extend to mediating between Iran and the United States, with Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif expressing hope for a peaceful resolution in the Strait of Hormuz. The Deputy Prime Minister engaged in talks with regional counterparts, including Iran’s Foreign Minister, to bolster peace initiatives. These efforts facilitated the evacuation of crew members from the seized Iranian ship ‘MV Touska’ as a confidence-building measure.
The Pakistan Navy demonstrated its commitment to maritime safety by responding to a distress call from the vessel MV GAUTAM in the Arabian Sea, providing essential aid to crew members of various nationalities. This underscores Pakistan’s readiness to assist in international waters, regardless of nationality.
On the international front, Pakistan joined a joint statement with several countries condemning the Israeli assaults on the Global Sumud Flotilla. The statement criticized the attacks as violations of international law and humanitarian principles.
Additionally, Pakistan successfully repatriated citizens detained in Cambodia and Uganda, providing consular access and essential support during detentions. The Ministry coordinated with relevant authorities to ensure the prompt return of these individuals, emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding its nationals abroad.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also addressed the issue of terrorism in Balochistan, highlighting ongoing security and diplomatic efforts to counter external support for terrorist activities. The Ministry assured continued vigilance and engagement with global institutions to address these challenges.
In a separate development, Pakistan’s diplomatic missions in the UAE have been addressing consular cases involving the issuance of emergency travel documents, largely due to administrative actions and legal infractions, with ongoing communication with UAE authorities.