ISSI Marks 52nd Anniversary with Key Foreign Policy Address by Deputy PM & FM Ishaq Dar
Islamabad – The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) celebrated its 52nd anniversary today, commemorating over five decades of contributions to policy research and strategic discourse. The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar as the Chief Guest, alongside Foreign Secretary Ambassador Amna Baloch, diplomats, scholars, think-tank representatives, and media personnel.
FM Dar Outlines Pakistan’s Foreign Policy Vision
In his keynote address, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar presented a comprehensive overview of Pakistan’s foreign policy in an era of geopolitical transformation. He lauded ISSI’s role as Pakistan’s premier think-tank in shaping research-driven policy and bridging the gap between academia and governance.
Key Highlights from FM Dar’s Address:
- Shifting Global Order: Dar emphasized the rise of multipolarity, citing China’s peaceful ascent, Russia’s resurgence, and the growing influence of the Global South.
- India-Pakistan Tensions: Reaffirming Pakistan’s sovereignty, he stated, “India can neither intimidate nor coerce Pakistan,” condemning New Delhi’s unilateral actions on the Indus Waters Treaty as legally invalid.
- Kashmir & Regional Peace: He called for a just resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with UN resolutions and the Kashmiri people’s aspirations.
- Middle East Crisis: Dar condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza and against Iran, advocating for adherence to international law while welcoming the recent Iran-Israel ceasefire.
- Geo-Economics & Multilateralism: Highlighting Pakistan’s role as a UNSC member, he stressed commitment to geo-economics, UN-centered diplomacy, and regional cooperation through platforms like Pakistan-Afghanistan-China and Bangladesh-China-Pakistan engagements.
ISSI’s Contributions & Future Roadmap
Earlier, ISSI Director General Ambassador Sohail Mahmood reflected on Pakistan’s strategic resilience, particularly in countering India’s post-Pahalgam aggression through unified political, military, and diplomatic efforts. He noted ISSI’s expanding influence, with over 165 events, 180+ policy briefs, and global partnerships in the past year.
New Publications Unveiled:
ISSI presented seven new books, including:
- Pakistan-China Relations: Connecting at the People’s Level
- The Kashmir Question in a Changing World
- Emerging Technologies and Strategic Stability
- Pakistan-Russia Relations: A Historical & Strategic Analysis
Closing Ceremony
The event concluded with Chairman BoG Ambassador Khalid Mahmood presenting a commemorative shield to FM Dar, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony.
Looking Ahead:
As ISSI enters its 53rd year, it reaffirms its commitment to fostering policy-relevant research and strengthening Pakistan’s strategic narrative on the global stage.
BY: The Times Union
