Islamabad, August 8, 2026: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar has extended Pakistan’s warmest greetings and best wishes to the governments and peoples of ASEAN member states on the 59th anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
In his message on ASEAN Day, Ishaq Dar also felicitated ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, commending his leadership and efforts to advance ASEAN’s vision of regional cooperation, resilience and prosperity.
The Deputy Prime Minister said ASEAN Day celebrates the enduring spirit of unity, solidarity and cooperation that has brought the nations of Southeast Asia together. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s enduring friendship and partnership with ASEAN and its member states.
He described ASEAN as a remarkable model of regional integration and collective progress, highlighting its achievements in economic development, social cohesion and diplomatic engagement. Pakistan, he said, deeply appreciates ASEAN’s pivotal role in promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.
Ishaq Dar said Pakistan’s relations with ASEAN were anchored in shared commitments to mutual respect, non-interference and constructive engagement. Pakistan has actively participated in ASEAN-led dialogue mechanisms and remains committed to expanding cooperation in areas including trade, investment, education, culture and people-to-people exchanges.
He particularly highlighted Pakistan’s active participation in the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), through which Islamabad contributes to collective efforts for regional peace, security and cooperation.
The Deputy Prime Minister noted that ASEAN’s unity and commitment to dialogue, mutual understanding and peaceful cooperation were particularly important amid growing global challenges and uncertainties.
Pakistan, he said, firmly believes that inclusive dialogue, mutual trust and international cooperation remain the most effective means of addressing shared challenges and therefore fully supports ASEAN’s continued efforts to promote regional peace, stability, prosperity and sustainable development.
“As ASEAN continues its journey of regional integration and community-building, Pakistan remains committed to working closely with ASEAN in advancing our shared vision of a peaceful, prosperous and integrated region,” Ishaq Dar said.
