Dar, Miliband discuss IWT, regional security

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held talks with British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband in London on Thursday, focusing on the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), regional security and Pakistan-UK relations.

According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, Dar highlighted what Pakistan describes as India’s continued violations of its international commitments. He stressed the need to respect international law and uphold treaty obligations, particularly in relation to the Indus Waters Treaty.

The meeting took place during Dar’s four-day official visit to the United Kingdom. Delegations from both countries participated in the discussions, which covered the broader relationship between Pakistan and Britain.

The two sides agreed to establish a structured mechanism for regular talks between their foreign ministries. The mechanism will provide a formal platform to discuss areas of cooperation, strengthen bilateral relations and monitor progress on key issues.

Dar and Miliband also stressed the importance of maintaining high-level engagement and improving coordination on matters of mutual interest.

Regional developments were another major focus of the meeting. The two foreign ministers discussed the situation in the Middle East, with Dar briefing his British counterpart on Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives and mediation efforts aimed at supporting dialogue and regional stability.

Miliband appreciated Pakistan’s role in facilitating diplomatic engagement and promoting dialogue in the region.

Dar also raised concerns over security threats originating from Afghan territory. He highlighted the threat posed by militant groups operating from Afghanistan and stressed the importance of continued international engagement to promote regional peace and security.

The two ministers further discussed the role of the Pakistani community in Britain. They agreed on the importance of strengthening people-to-people connections and maintaining the longstanding links between the two countries.

The meeting came as Dar continued a series of diplomatic engagements in the UK. Earlier, he met the leadership of the International Maritime Organisation and called for urgent institutional efforts to secure the release of 10 Pakistani sailors reportedly held captive by Somali pirates.