Ishaq Dar arrives in Manila for ASEAN Forum

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar arrived in Manila, Philippines, on Wednesday to attend the

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar arrived in Manila, Philippines, on Wednesday to attend the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting. The visit reflects Pakistan’s continued engagement with regional and international partners on key political, economic, and security issues.

Dar reached Manila with a high-level delegation. During his visit, he will participate in the ARF plenary session and hold several bilateral meetings with foreign ministers and senior officials from participating countries. These meetings are expected to focus on strengthening diplomatic ties, expanding economic cooperation, and discussing regional developments.

Upon his arrival, Dar was welcomed by senior officials of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the Philippines Asima Rabbani, and officials of the Pakistani Embassy.

The ASEAN Regional Forum is one of the region’s most important diplomatic gatherings. It brings together foreign ministers and senior representatives from ASEAN member states and partner countries to discuss peace, security, and regional cooperation.

This year’s meeting will focus on several pressing international issues. Participants will exchange views on growing geopolitical tensions, regional security challenges, energy security, food supply concerns, trade cooperation, and the impact of ongoing global conflicts.

The situation in Myanmar will also be high on the agenda. Leaders are expected to review efforts to implement ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus and discuss ways to support peace and stability in the country.

The continuing tensions between the United States and Iran are also expected to feature prominently during discussions. Delegates will assess the impact of the conflict on regional security, global energy markets, and international trade.

Senior diplomats from major world powers are attending the forum. These include representatives from the United States, China, India, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. The meeting provides an opportunity for bilateral engagements and dialogue on shared global challenges.

ASEAN countries are also expected to discuss measures to strengthen regional energy cooperation. Member states are exploring ways to improve oil-sharing mechanisms to reduce the impact of possible disruptions in global energy supplies.