Deputy PM Ishaq Dar Addresses Pakistani Community in New York
Date: July 27, 2025
Category: Pakistani Diaspora | Pakistan–US Relations | Economy & Foreign Policy
Tags: Ishaq Dar speech, Pakistani community in USA, US-Pakistan trade, Afghan policy, diaspora investment
🗽 Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar’s Message to the Pakistani Diaspora
During his visit to the United States, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar delivered a powerful and forward-looking speech to the Pakistani-American community in New York. The event, held at the Pakistan Consulate, served as a crucial moment for reaffirming Pakistan’s foreign policy vision, strengthening diaspora engagement, and offering insights into ongoing Pakistan–US bilateral relations.
🤝 Strengthening Pakistan–US Relations
Addressing a packed audience of professionals, businessmen, and students, Ishaq Dar emphasized that Pakistan seeks the strongest possible relations with the United States, stating that:
“Our friendship with China is long-standing, but we don’t want our ties with Washington to be viewed through a competitive lens.”
Dar's remarks highlight Pakistan’s diplomatic balancing act—maintaining close ties with China while fostering a pragmatic, non-confrontational relationship with the U.S.
💼 US–Pakistan Trade Talks: A New Beginning?
Deputy PM Dar discussed his recent high-level meetings in Washington, where he met senior U.S. officials to negotiate a bilateral trade deal. While avoiding a specific timeline, he said:
“We are very close to a breakthrough. The tone of our discussions was extremely cordial, and progress is being made.”
Such a trade agreement could prove pivotal, especially as Pakistan seeks foreign investment, export access, and tariff relief to boost its fragile economy. This is viewed as a critical moment for economic diplomacy.
🇦🇫 On Afghanistan: Assurances from Kabul
In a pointed reference to regional security, Dar shared that Pakistan had received recent assurances from Afghanistan that its soil will not be used for attacks against Pakistan. This statement comes amid rising concerns about cross-border terrorism and instability in the Pak-Afghan region.
Dar reiterated that Pakistan is committed to working with regional stakeholders, including China and Central Asian republics, to ensure peaceful connectivity and economic growth.
💰 Calling the Pakistani Diaspora to Invest
Labeling the overseas community as a “national asset”, Ishaq Dar invited Pakistani-Americans to invest in key sectors including:
-
Energy & infrastructure
-
Agriculture
-
Aviation & PIA
-
IT, fintech & startups
-
Higher education & health
He announced the government’s intent to resume PIA flights to New York and Europe, making travel easier for overseas Pakistanis. Dar added:
“We are removing bureaucratic red tape and offering full support to overseas Pakistanis who wish to contribute to their homeland.”
🛡️ National Security & Sovereignty
In his concluding remarks, the Deputy PM stressed Pakistan’s sovereignty and defense capabilities. Referring indirectly to recent tensions with India, he praised the unity and patriotism of the overseas community, especially after incidents that led to the downing of multiple Indian aircraft under Operation Bunyad-un-Marsoos.
He reaffirmed that Pakistan's defense forces and diplomatic institutions are committed to protecting the nation's sovereignty and projecting strength through diplomacy.
📊 Key Takeaways from the Address
| Topic | Summary |
|---|---|
| Foreign Relations | Balanced diplomacy with China, U.S., and regional neighbors |
| US Trade Talks | Ongoing negotiations for a potential trade agreement |
| Afghan Policy | Kabul has assured Pakistan it won't allow its soil to be used by militants |
| Diaspora Investment | Strong appeal to invest in national development |
| PIA Revival | Plans to resume flights to New York and Europe |
| Defense & Patriotism | Praised overseas Pakistanis for unity during national crises |
📸 Visual Highlights
Photos and videos from the event showed a warm, energetic reception. The community raised questions about:
-
NRP voting rights
-
Dual citizenship reforms
-
Youth engagement programs
-
Real estate and business investment security
Deputy PM Dar assured the audience that the government is working on institutional reforms and will soon launch a dedicated diaspora investment cell.
📍 Final Words
This address marks a significant step in re-establishing Pakistan’s relationship with its diaspora and major allies, especially the U.S. In a time of economic and political uncertainty, Ishaq Dar’s outreach reflects a policy of engagement, development, and balance.