Islamabad, March 8, 2026: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has paid tribute to the courage, resilience, and leadership of women, saying their determination continues to transform societies and inspire future generations.
In his message on International Women’s Day, Dar said women’s voices, talents, and aspirations are essential drivers of inclusive development, responsive governance, and sustainable peace.
He reaffirmed that Pakistan remains committed to advancing the rights and empowerment of women and girls. He noted that Pakistan’s Constitution guarantees equality and protection against discrimination, while the country, as a signatory to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), continues to pursue legislative, policy, and institutional reforms to enhance women’s participation and leadership.
Dar also highlighted that Pakistan will host the 9th Ministerial Conference on Women of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) this year, reflecting the country’s commitment to promoting women’s rights across the Islamic world and beyond.
He said Pakistan has developed a comprehensive framework to promote gender-sensitive legislation, oversight, and accountability. According to the foreign minister, women are increasingly assuming leadership roles across political institutions, the executive, the judiciary, civil service, the armed forces, non-governmental organizations, and both public and private corporate sectors.
He added that Pakistani women are also representing the country with distinction in diplomacy and international organizations, supported by expanded legal protections, social safety nets, financial inclusion initiatives, and programs for women entrepreneurs.
The deputy prime minister also expressed solidarity with women facing hardships in conflict regions. He said Pakistan stands with its Kashmiri sisters in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir who have endured decades of occupation and human rights violations.
Dar further expressed support for the mothers and daughters of Palestine, saying they continue to face severe violence and deprivation under occupation. He stressed that the struggles of women in such regions highlight that the protection of women’s rights cannot be achieved in isolation.
He concluded by reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to promoting women’s rights, empowerment, and equal opportunities as essential pillars of a just and inclusive society.
