Dar holds key talks with Australia, Oman on regional stability

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held important diplomatic meetings in Manila during the ASEAN Regional Forum 2026,

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held important diplomatic meetings in Manila during the ASEAN Regional Forum 2026, discussing regional security, global developments, and ways to strengthen Pakistan’s relations with other countries.

Dar met Australian Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong and reviewed the current state of Pakistan-Australia relations. Both sides agreed to further expand cooperation through regular high-level contacts and closer engagement.

The two foreign ministers also discussed recent regional tensions and international challenges. They stressed that dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for international law are essential for achieving long-term peace and stability.

Australia appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to support dialogue and reduce tensions in the region. Both countries agreed to continue cooperation on matters of mutual interest.

During another meeting, Dar held talks with Oman’s Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi. The two leaders expressed satisfaction over the positive progress in Pakistan-Oman relations and agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

The discussions focused on increasing trade, promoting investment, improving business-to-business links, expanding people-to-people contacts, and enhancing cooperation through international forums.

Both sides also exchanged views on regional and global developments. They emphasised the need to uphold ceasefires, respect international law, and work together to promote peace and security.

Oman praised Pakistan’s constructive role in encouraging dialogue and supporting regional stability. The two ministers agreed to remain in close communication on important issues.

Earlier in Manila, Dar also met senior officials of the Asian Development Bank and called for faster progress on financing for Pakistan’s Main Line-1 railway project. He highlighted the long-standing partnership between Pakistan and the development institution and discussed expanding cooperation in different sectors.

Dar also held separate meetings with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Bangladesh Foreign Minister Khalilur Rehman. The discussions covered bilateral relations, trade, energy cooperation, connectivity, and future diplomatic engagement.

The ASEAN Regional Forum has brought together foreign ministers and senior officials from several countries to discuss major global and regional challenges, including security issues, energy supplies, trade, food security, and ongoing conflicts.