Pakistan Takes the Lead at the UN: Ishaq Dar Champions Peace and Diplomacy in New York

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, arrived in New York on July 21, 2025, to lead a series of major diplomatic engagements as Pakistan holds the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the month of July. His visit, running from July 21 to 28, reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to global peace, multilateral cooperation, and unwavering support for the Palestinian cause.

During this crucial week, Dar is chairing key UNSC sessions, including a high-level open debate on advancing international peace through diplomacy and mediation. He will also preside over the Council’s quarterly debate on the situation in the Middle East, with a sharp focus on the Palestine question — reiterating Pakistan’s consistent call for a just, lasting resolution and the protection of Palestinian rights.

Another significant item on his agenda is a briefing aimed at enhancing collaboration between the UN and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). This session will explore ways to improve coordination between the two bodies in addressing global conflicts, particularly in Muslim-majority regions.

A major highlight of Dar’s trip is his participation in the International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, which will be held in New York on July 28–29. Co-hosted by Saudi Arabia and France, the conference was originally scheduled for June but was delayed due to escalating tensions in the region. Pakistan’s presence signals not only its firm stance on the two-state solution but also its urgent call for a ceasefire in Gaza amid worsening humanitarian conditions.

Dar is also expected to visit Washington, D.C., where he will meet with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on July 25. Their meeting follows a series of recent high-level Pakistan-U.S. interactions focused on deepening bilateral cooperation, particularly in areas of trade, regional security, and climate resilience.

Ishaq Dar’s high-profile engagements this week reflect Pakistan’s increasing visibility and assertiveness in multilateral forums. Public response, particularly on platforms like X, has been largely positive — applauding Pakistan’s principled diplomacy and its continued solidarity with the Palestinian people.

Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 21st, 2025

Follow SouthAsianDesk on X, Instagram and Facebook for insights on business and current affairs from across South Asia.