ISLAMABAD: Deputy Foreign Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said that “Pakistan has always stood for peace, dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect among nations. The events of the past year have once again underscored the urgent need for the peaceful resolution of longstanding disputes, particularly the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, which remains a source of instability in our region.”
He stated this in a message on the Occasion of the 80th Independence Day of Pakistan (August 14, 2026)
Dar added, “Pakistan will continue to extend its principled moral, political and diplomatic support to the Kashmiri people in their just struggle for the realisation of their inalienable right to self-determination, in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.”
“On the joyous occasion of Pakistan’s 80thIndependence Day, I extend my warmest greetings and best wishes to the people of Pakistan, our fellow citizens abroad, and all those joining us in celebrating this momentous day,” he remarked.
“This year, we signed the landmark Makkah Accord with our brotherly countries, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye. This historic agreement reflects our shared resolve to deepen strategic cooperation, strengthen collective security, and address evolving regional and international peace and security challenges.
“We also commemorated the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq, recalling Pakistan’s resolute and successful response to Indian aggression in 2025. The occasion reaffirmed our determination to safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, while remaining firmly committed to international law, responsible statecraft and the pursuit of regional peace.”
Dar paid special tribute to the valiant Armed Forces, police and paramilitary forces of Pakistan, whose courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment remain a bulwark of our national security. “We honour all those who continue to make immense sacrifices in defence of our homeland and for the peace and stability of our country, confronting threats posed by Pakistan’s enemies, both within and beyond our borders. The nation stands united with them and remains deeply grateful for their service and sacrifice,” he emphasised.
“As we commemorate our Independence Day, we pay tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, whose visionary leadership, unwavering resolve and steadfast commitment transformed the aspiration for a separate homeland into reality.”
Since independence, Dar stated “Pakistan has made remarkable strides across diverse fields, guided by the enduring principles of unity, faith and discipline. Today, we are a resilient nation of more than 250 million people, bound together by our shared history, collective heritage and common aspirations.
“Our achievements in education, science and technology, economic development, sports, culture and other fields reflect the talent, determination and immense potential of our people.”
Over the past eight decades, he highlighted Pakistan has also strengthened its standing on the international stage. “Our expanding diplomatic engagement, growing economic and connectivity partnerships, and deepening defenceand security cooperation reflect Pakistan’s confidence and its commitment to contributing to a peaceful, stable and prosperous region and world.
“As we celebrate Independence Day, let us draw renewed inspiration from the ideals and vision that led to the creation of Pakistan. Let us reaffirm our collective resolve to strengthen our institutions, uphold our national unity, harness the potential of our people, and build a stronger, more prosperous and peaceful Pakistan for generations to come.”
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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