LONDON: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who also serves as Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, criticized the previous Imran Khan government on Saturday for its economic and security policies, linking these “missteps” to the current rise in terrorism and economic challenges in the country.
Speaking at a comprehensive press conference held at the Pakistan High Commission in London’s Belgravia district, Dar addressed UK-Pakistan relations and the political and security situation in Pakistan. While expressing regret over past mistakes by both government and military officials, he maintained an optimistic outlook for the country’s future.
During the conference, Dar made pointed comments about a “three-star general who went to Kabul to have a cup of tea” in 2021, attributing the increase in terrorism, particularly in Balochistan, to the actions taken by then-ISI chief Lt Gen Faiz Hameed, who released militants following his visit to Kabul. “The country is paying a price for that cup of tea in Afghanistan,” he remarked, indirectly referring to Hameed’s actions without naming him.
Dar questioned whether Lt Gen Hameed’s Kabul trip in 2021 had been sanctioned by then-Prime Minister Imran Khan, expressing doubt that such a visit could have occurred without the prime minister’s approval. He praised the current military establishment, calling them “very professional” and highlighting their focus on Pakistan’s interests over political affiliations.
Strengthening UK-Pakistan Relations
Dar described his visit to the UK as “fruitful for Pakistan,” expressing optimism about enhancing bilateral ties to a strategic partnership level. He noted that the “cold shoulder” of the past few years had been overcome, following positive engagements with UK officials, including Foreign Secretary David Lammy. Discussions covered global issues such as Kashmir, Gaza, and Islamophobia in the UK and Europe.
He emphasized that claims of Pakistan’s international isolation were disproven by the “active guidance and tireless efforts” of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his team.
Imran Khan’s Legal Proceedings and Government Stance
Addressing questions about the trial of Imran Khan and the possibility of a civilian leader being tried in a military court, Dar clarified that no new laws had been made and that Khan’s case would proceed according to existing legal frameworks, particularly in relation to attacks on security installations.
Regarding potential negotiations with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Dar denied any ongoing talks, stating that the government’s “hands are tied after the May 9 riots.”
When asked about PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif’s perceived silence, Dar refuted the notion of inactivity, stating that Sharif remained actively engaged with party teams at both federal and provincial levels, providing guidance and recommendations.
Focus on Reviving UK-Pakistan Flights and Emphasizing Diaspora’s Role
Dar also mentioned efforts to resume Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights between the UK and Pakistan, highlighting the government’s compliance with the latest requirements of the UK Aviation Authority. He stressed the importance of the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and the UK, crediting the Pakistani diaspora for its significant contributions to both countries’ development.
“The British-Pakistanis have proven to be articulate, diverse, and vibrant, contributing not only to the host country but also to Pakistan,” he added.
