Ansar M Bhatti
ISLAMA BAD: Federal Finance Minister and senior PML-N leader, Senator Ishaq Dar, has dismissed speculation that Pakistan’s engagement with the United States could harm its long-standing strategic partnership with China. Speaking in the National Assembly, Dar said that Pakistan’s foreign policy framework gives China a unique and central place, and no agreement with Washington would come at the expense of Beijing.
“There are reports suggesting that any deal with the U.S. might damage Pakistan-China relations. Let me be very clear — this is not true,” Dar asserted. He stressed that relations with China are deeply rooted in history, mutual trust, and shared strategic interests, and remain an “unshakable cornerstone” of Pakistan’s foreign policy.
Dar underlined that Pakistan maintains close and balanced relations with multiple global powers, but its partnership with China is “exceptional and time-tested.” He added that while Islamabad is open to dialogue and cooperation with Washington on areas of mutual interest, it would not allow such cooperation to undermine its deep ties with Beijing.
“Pakistan’s relationship with China is unique. It cannot be compared with any other. Our cooperation in CPEC, defense, trade, and diplomacy is a reflection of this bond. Therefore, the idea that we would compromise these ties for short-term gains elsewhere is entirely baseless,” Dar said.
His remarks come amid renewed debate on Pakistan’s foreign policy priorities, with analysts suggesting Islamabad may seek to reset ties with Washington. However, Dar’s statement signals continuity in Pakistan’s longstanding “all-weather” partnership with China, even as it explores avenues of cooperation with the United States.
By reaffirming the centrality of Beijing in Islamabad’s foreign policy, Dar sought to put to rest any speculation about a shift in Pakistan’s strategic outlook.
