Imagine a vibrant South Asia where neighbors collaborate seamlessly for shared growth and harmony—yet artificial barriers are holding back a key platform for this dream. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar is passionately advocating for dismantling these hurdles to revive SAARC and let it thrive once more.
In a compelling speech at the Islamabad Conclave 2025, which focused on "Reimagining South Asia: Security, Economy, Climate, and Connectivity," Dar urged the elimination of man-made impediments that have obstructed SAARC's path, paving the way for its revitalization.
For those new to the topic, SAARC stands for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, a group founded in 1985 to foster collaboration among countries like Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and others in the region. It's designed to tackle common challenges through teamwork, but political tensions have often sidelined its potential. Dar emphasized that SAARC remains Pakistan's top preference as a vehicle for regional unity.
He painted a hopeful picture of a South Asia transformed by interconnectedness instead of rifts, where economies flourish together, conflicts are settled amicably through legitimate international norms, and peace endures with respect and self-worth. Pakistan, he declared, is eager to team up with any partners open to collaboration to unlock the region's vast opportunities.
But here's where it gets controversial: Dar stressed the urgent need to rethink South Asia's future, charting paths toward peace, advancement, and wealth for its citizens. Issues like regional security threats, economic vulnerabilities, and the pressing climate crisis can't be addressed effectively amid political divisions and a shattered regional framework. He argued that national progress and regional goals shouldn't be sacrificed to stubborn inflexibility from any side.
Referring to the recent armed clash in May, Dar highlighted Pakistan's firm response and ability to repel attacks while bolstering its defense strategy. He pointed out that true, lasting peace in South Asia goes beyond just maintaining a balance of power—it demands a fair and enduring resolution to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, a long-standing flashpoint between India and Pakistan that has fueled regional instability.
And this is the part most people miss: On climate change, Dar underscored the vital importance of joint efforts in managing water resources, adapting to environmental shifts, and developing strong agricultural policies. Pouring investments into renewable energy sources, innovative farming techniques that combat climate impacts, and readiness for natural disasters will be crucial for lasting development, helping build tough, adaptive communities throughout South Asia. For instance, think of shared solar projects or cooperative flood-control systems that could prevent famines or water shortages in drought-prone areas.
Dar also called for a fair, balanced, and welcoming global system, where Pakistan rejects power blocs and win-lose mindsets, instead championing teamwork over rivalry.
Here's a potentially divisive angle: Pakistan has consistently backed multilateral approaches rooted in international law, the United Nations Charter, and updated global institutions. It has pushed for open talks, diplomatic resolutions, and peaceful conflict endings, along with global unity and support. Critics might argue this stance overlooks specific geopolitical realities, like ongoing tensions with neighbors, but Dar frames it as essential for a more equitable world.
What do you think? Should SAARC overcome its hurdles by sidelining political disputes, or are deeper rivalries—like the Kashmir issue—too entrenched to ignore? Do you agree that cooperation on climate and economy could bridge divides, or is this just wishful thinking? Share your views in the comments—let's discuss!
