Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated during a recent address in New York that Pakistan narrowly avoided economic default following the departure of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government, crediting the current coalition for stabilizing the country’s financial trajectory.

Speaking to members of the Pakistani diaspora, Dar claimed that had the previous government remained in power for six more months, “Pakistan would have defaulted.” He emphasized that difficult political decisions, including the no-confidence vote that ousted the PTI administration, were necessary to prevent a financial collapse.

Dar reported that economic conditions have markedly improved under the current leadership. “GDP growth is back on track, inflation is declining, and foreign reserves are building,” he said, adding that global financial institutions have acknowledged Pakistan’s economic recovery. He also reiterated the government’s vision to eventually position Pakistan among the world’s top 20 economies.

Calling overseas Pakistanis the country’s “greatest asset,” Dar urged the diaspora to invest in and support Pakistan’s economic revival.

On the diplomatic front, Dar highlighted Pakistan’s role in enhancing regional connectivity and strengthening international relationships. He referenced recent engagements, including a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, as steps toward deeper economic and strategic cooperation.

He also confirmed progress on a potential bilateral trade agreement with the United States, which he said could be finalized in the coming days.

Regarding regional security, Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s ongoing dialogue with Afghan authorities, emphasizing Islamabad’s call for Kabul to ensure its territory is not used against Pakistan. “We want a stable and prosperous Afghanistan,” he said.

Dar also took a strong stance on international issues. On Palestine, he reiterated Pakistan’s firm support for a two-state solution and peaceful coexistence based on respect for national sovereignty.

Addressing the case of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, Dar described her as “the daughter of Pakistan” and said efforts had been made at every diplomatic level, including appeals to former U.S. President Joe Biden, to secure her release.

In terms of national security, he praised Pakistan’s military response to Indian aggression, highlighting the downing of Rafale jets, strategic airspace closures, and successful counter-narratives in global forums. He also lauded Operation Bunyan-e-Mursoos, describing it as a major success led by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, which “demonstrated Pakistan’s military strength and resilience.”

With optimism about the country’s economic and geopolitical direction, Dar concluded by calling for unity, confidence, and continued engagement from Pakistanis at home and abroad to help shape a more stable and prosperous future.