Dar, EU’s Kallas back diplomacy as only path to peace amid US-Iran tensions

• Dar vows full implementation of GSP+ obligations, underscores value of EU economic partnership

• Two leaders reaffirm shared commitment to advancing cooperation under Pakistan-EU Strategic Engagement Plan

• Pakistan, Egypt call for de-escalation, respect for sovereignty and peace in Middle East

• DPM to represent Pakistan at ASEAN Regional Forum talks on Asia-Pacific security

 ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, on Wednesday underscored that sustained diplomacy remained the only viable and durable path to peace and stability, particularly amid the evolving situation between the United States and Iran, as they reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Pakistan-EU strategic cooperation.

The two leaders met on the sidelines of the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting in Manila, where they exchanged views on regional and international developments, with particular focus on the implications of the US-Iran situation for regional and global stability, the Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement posted on X.

Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 met the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice President of the European Commission, @KajaKallas, on the sidelines of the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) in… pic.twitter.com/WhsRkGAwMB

— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) July 22, 2026

According to the FO, both sides discussed the broader impact of recent regional developments on international security, global energy markets, maritime security, trade, and supply chains. They emphasized that continued dialogue, adherence to international law, and diplomatic engagement remained essential for addressing regional challenges and preventing further escalation.

Earlier, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar arrived in Manila along with a delegation to participate in the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting.

Upon his arrival, he was received by Elmer G. Cato, Assistant Secretary for the Office of Intelligence and Security Services (OISS) at the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of the Philippines, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the Philippines Asima Rabbani, and officials of the Embassy of Pakistan, the FO said.

During the meeting, HR/VP Kaja Kallas warmly recalled her recent bilateral visit to Islamabad for the eighth round of the Pakistan-European Union Strategic Dialogue. The two leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing cooperation under the Pakistan-EU Strategic Engagement Plan and expressed satisfaction over the positive trajectory of bilateral relations.

Deputy Prime Minister Dar also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the effective implementation of all international conventions underpinning the GSP+ framework and underscored the importance Pakistan attaches to its economic partnership with the European Union.

 Pakistan, Egypt discuss expanding bilateral cooperation

Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar attended a dinner meeting hosted by Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates, Dr. Badr Abdelatty, on the eve of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) 2026 in Manila, the Foreign Office said in a separate post on X.

Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 attended a dinner meeting hosted by Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates, Dr. Badr Abdelatty, on the eve of the ASEAN Regional Forum #ARF2026 in Manila.

The two… pic.twitter.com/NFi3smFkU8

— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) July 22, 2026

The two foreign ministers held wide-ranging discussions on further strengthening Pakistan-Egypt bilateral relations, with particular emphasis on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, economic development, and collaboration at multilateral forums.

Reviewing the evolving situation in the Middle East, both sides underscored the importance of de-escalation and dialogue while emphasizing respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states. They also discussed the wider implications of regional instability for global maritime trade, energy security, and the world economy, according to the FO.

The two leaders also exchanged views on the situation in Palestine, reiterating their rejection of violence against civilians and illegal settlement activities in the occupied West Bank. They reviewed the latest Regional Four consultations held in Cairo and reaffirmed their shared commitment to promoting peace, stability, and regional cooperation.

Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 arrived in Manila, Philippines, along with his delegation to participate in the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting. A busy programme of engagements lies ahead, including participation… pic.twitter.com/gn3Jqqwifl

— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) July 22, 2026

The 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting is bringing together foreign ministers and delegates from the 27 ARF member states, along with the Secretary-General of ASEAN.

During the ministerial meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Dar will participate in discussions on key political and security issues affecting the Asia-Pacific region, with a special focus on promoting peace, stability, and mutual cooperation through sustained dialogue and diplomacy, the Foreign Office said.