Central leader of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Senator Sherry Rehman on Tuesday called for a balanced and responsible foreign policy approach, urging national unity and restraint amid escalating regional tensions.
Taking part in the debate in the Upper House about the Middle East crisis, she said Pakistan had expressed its condemnation at the highest level over recent aggression in the region, emphasizing that when states issue formal condemnations, they carry diplomatic weight and significance.
She said that the President and the Prime Minister had clearly articulated Pakistan’s position, reflecting the country’s principled stance in line with international law.
Pakistan, she added, had not resorted to inflammatory rhetoric or confrontational politics but had instead prioritized safeguarding its own sovereignty while advocating justice and moderation on global forums.
She said that foreign policy must primarily serve the interests of Pakistan and its people. “Foreign policy serves the citizens first and last,” she said, cautioning against emotional reactions that could endanger national interests or strain relations with friendly countries.
Highlighting Pakistan’s longstanding ties with regional states, including brotherly relations with neighboring Muslim countries and strong connections with Gulf nations hosting millions of overseas Pakistanis, she stressed the need to maintain diplomatic balance and avoid actions that could jeopardize economic and strategic interests.
Sherry Rehman also appreciated the efforts of Pakistan’s diplomatic mission in Iran for ensuring the safety and evacuation arrangements of Pakistani nationals amid the prevailing situation.
Expressing concern over the growing instability in the region, she warned that prolonged conflict could have devastating consequences. “Wars destroy decades of progress and developments within moments and leave behind only suffering and loss,” she remarked, urging all parties to pursue dialogue and diplomatic engagement.
She reiterated that Pakistan’s foreign policy objective should be to promote negotiations, prevent escalation, and safeguard regional peace, particularly at a time when the country faces internal and external security challenges.
Calling for unity, she said political leaders must discourage public incitement and avoid actions that could fuel unrest.