Pakistan urges solutions to long-standing global disputes such as Palestine, Kashmir at CICA

Meeting was addressed virtually by DPM, who highlighted Pakistan’s efforts for peace, stability, and security in Asia

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Pakistan stressed the need for just and inclusive political solutions to long-standing global disputes, such as the Palestine and Kashmir issues, at the 7th Ministerial Meeting of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA).

The meeting, hosted by Azerbaijan, was addressed virtually by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who participated from Egypt, where he is attending a summit of D-8 developing nations focused on Gaza and Lebanon.

Dar highlighted Pakistan’s efforts to promote cooperation, peace, stability, and security in Asia, while acknowledging the challenges that hinder the region’s shared economic and political goals. "Lasting progress cannot be achieved in isolation," he told the gathering.

"Persistent challenges, including political disputes, conflicts, foreign occupations and the denial of self-determination, along with poverty and illiteracy, undermine the collective development of Asia," he added.

Dar underscored the importance of addressing the root causes of conflicts to achieve sustainable peace and security. "A just resolution of the Palestine and Jammu and Kashmir issues and guaranteeing their right to self-determination is key to fostering lasting peace in the region," he stated.

The DPM also emphasised the role of strengthening regional connectivity in driving economic integration and sustainable development.

He pointed to initiatives such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as potential catalysts for regional economic cooperation and prosperity.

"As the global economic centre of gravity shifts, it is essential that we seize the moment of opportunity to ensure inclusive regional transformation," he said, stressing CICA's importance in fostering collaboration across Asia.

Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to CICA’s vision of advancing dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to international law to resolve disputes, urging member states to continue utilising the platform for regional cooperation and collective progress.

CICA, established in 1992 and headquartered in Kazakhstan, began as a Central Asian initiative but now includes members from the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Pakistan, as a founding member, views the platform as essential for addressing regional economic development and integration.