EU Reaffirms Pakistan’s Right to Self-Defense, Calls Dialogue the Best Path to Regional Stability
Islamabad: European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has reaffirmed Pakistan’s right to defend itself against terrorist threats while emphasizing that dialogue remains the most effective way to resolve regional disputes.
Speaking at a joint press conference in Islamabad alongside Ishaq Dar, Kallas said Pakistan has the right to protect its citizens and safeguard its security in accordance with international law. However, she stressed that diplomatic engagement and negotiations are essential for achieving long-term peace and stability.
The EU official noted that the European Union has consistently encouraged restraint and de-escalation during periods of regional tension. She said negotiations offer a more sustainable solution to conflicts than military actions and should remain the preferred course of action for all parties.
Kallas stated that discussions during the Pakistan-EU Strategic Dialogue covered a wide range of regional and international issues. She thanked Pakistani authorities for their hospitality and expressed confidence that cooperation between Pakistan and the European Union would continue to expand in the coming years.
She also acknowledged Pakistan’s role in facilitating diplomatic contacts between the United States and Iran, describing Islamabad’s efforts as valuable for regional peace and international stability.
According to Kallas, tensions involving the United States and Iran have contributed to uncertainty in global energy markets, making diplomatic solutions and lasting ceasefires increasingly important.
The EU foreign policy chief said one of the key objectives for 2026 is to strengthen Pakistan-EU relations and adapt the partnership to future challenges and opportunities. She highlighted the importance of cooperation in trade, economic development, and regional security.
For his part, Ishaq Dar welcomed the European Union delegation and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening ties with the bloc. He praised the continued engagement of European leaders with Pakistan, particularly during periods of regional tension and international crises.
Dar said the Pakistan-EU Strategic Vision has the potential to open new avenues of long-term cooperation and described the ongoing strategic dialogue as evidence of a forward-looking partnership between the two sides.
He expressed hope that the latest round of talks would produce meaningful outcomes and help identify new areas for cooperation based on shared interests.
The foreign minister also pointed out that the visit marks the first trip to Pakistan by a senior EU foreign policy official in seven years. Discussions during the dialogue included security cooperation, counterterrorism efforts, regional developments, and the situation in Afghanistan.
The eighth round of the Pakistan-EU Strategic Dialogue focuses on security, trade, economic cooperation, regional affairs, and multilateral engagement, reflecting the broad scope of relations between the two partners.
Kallas is also scheduled to meet with Asif Ali Zardari, Shehbaz Sharif, and Asim Munir during her visit. She is expected to engage with representatives from think tanks and academic institutions as part of her official program.
The visit comes as Pakistan and the European Union continue to cooperate closely on trade, development, climate issues, migration, and regional stability. The EU remains Pakistan’s second-largest trading partner, while the GSP+ framework continues to provide Pakistani exports with preferential access to European markets.