Ishaq Dar Rules Out Reconciliation with PTI, Slams Leadership Over May 9 Events
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has ruled out the possibility of any reconciliation with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), describing the party as consisting of “seditious elements.” Speaking informally to the media in London on Monday, Dar emphasized that any future dialogue would only be possible after PTI’s complete surrender. He made it clear that there could be no “deal with sedition,” stressing that those responsible for the May 9 incidents must face legal consequences.
“Justice appears to be prevailing in the May 9 cases. Those involved are paying the price,” Dar stated, adding that those punished through transparent legal processes had to face the law. He expressed regret that “millions of dollars” were being spent abroad to malign Pakistan’s institutions. Dar also launched a sharp attack on PTI’s founding chairman, accusing his policies of damaging the country’s national interests and undermining its global standing.
Diplomatic Success in Belarus and Manpower Cooperation
During the briefing, Dar also spoke about his recent visit to Belarus, which he described as a diplomatic success. He highlighted discussions on exporting 150,000 skilled workers from Pakistan to Belarus and collaborating in heavy machinery manufacturing. “The Belarusian government has agreed to allocate the entire manpower quota to Pakistan, which is a significant step for us,” he said. The cooperation was facilitated by the longstanding friendship between former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and the President of Belarus.
Read More: Ishaq Dar says ‘no compromise’ on country’s nuclear, missile programmes
Nawaz Sharif’s Continued Political Role
When questioned about the future of Nawaz Sharif in politics, Dar firmly dismissed any notion that Sharif had left the political arena. “When did he ever leave politics?” Dar said. He clarified that Nawaz Sharif remains the president of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and the party continues to seek his guidance on key matters.
International Airport in Azad Kashmir and Overseas Convention
Dar also confirmed plans to establish an international airport in Azad Kashmir, with feasibility studies already underway. He mentioned that the government is committed to this project, with an announcement expected from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during the upcoming overseas convention in Islamabad. Additionally, members of the UK-based Pakistani diaspora serving in the cabinet will attend the convention.
Revival of Basant Festival in Punjab
On a cultural note, Dar confirmed that the Punjab government, under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, is moving forward with plans to revive the traditional Basant Festival in a safe and regulated manner. The event, planned for February 2026, will be held in Lahore’s Walled City and will involve strict safety measures, including a ban on motorcycles during the festivities and the restriction of kite and twine sales to registered vendors.
Condemnation of Killing of Pakistani Nationals in Iran
Dar also condemned the tragic killing of eight Pakistani workers in Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province. The workers, employed as automobile mechanics, were shot dead at a workshop in Mehrestan district near the Afghan border. Dar called on Iranian authorities to thoroughly investigate the incident, stating, “We have taken the matter seriously and demanded answers from Iran. The loss of innocent Pakistani lives abroad must not go unaddressed.”
