DPM/FM Dar reaffirms Pakistan’s support for ASEAN’s peace, prosperity efforts

ISLAMABAD, Aug 8 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Saturday reaffirmed Pakistan’s full support for ASEAN’s continued efforts to promote regional peace, stability, prosperity and sustainable development.

In a message on the occasion of the 59th Anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Deputy Prime Minister said Pakistan firmly believed that inclusive dialogue, mutual trust and international cooperation remained the most effective means of addressing shared challenges.

“As ASEAN continues its journey of regional integration and community-building, Pakistan remains committed to working closely with ASEAN in advancing our shared vision of a peaceful, prosperous and integrated region,” he said.

Extending felicitations on behalf of the Government and people of Pakistan, Dar also congratulated ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn on his leadership and steadfast efforts to advance ASEAN’s vision of regional cooperation, resilience and prosperity, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“ASEAN Day celebrates the enduring spirit of unity, solidarity and cooperation that has brought the nations of Southeast Asia together. Pakistan joins its ASEAN friends in commemorating this important occasion and reaffirming our enduring friendship and partnership with the region,” he said.

Dar said ASEAN represented a remarkable model of regional integration and collective progress, with significant achievements in economic development, social cohesion and diplomatic engagement.

“Pakistan deeply appreciates ASEAN’s pivotal role in advancing peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region. ASEAN Day also provides an opportunity to reaffirm the importance of regional cooperation while celebrating the rich cultural diversity and historical heritage of Southeast Asia,” he added.

The Deputy Prime Minister said Pakistan’s relations with ASEAN were anchored in a shared commitment to the principles of mutual respect, non-interference and constructive engagement.

He said Pakistan had actively participated in ASEAN-led dialogue mechanisms and remained committed to further deepening cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment, education, culture and people-to-people exchanges.

Dar said Pakistan’s engagement with ASEAN had also been strengthened through its active participation in the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), where it contributed to collective efforts aimed at promoting regional peace, security and cooperation.

At a time of growing global challenges and uncertainties, he observed that ASEAN’s unity and steadfast commitment to dialogue, mutual understanding and peaceful cooperation were particularly commendable.