In a press conference held at the Pakistan High Commission in London, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who also holds the foreign affairs portfolio, criticized the economic and security decisions made by the previous Imran Khan government. He attributed the current rise in terrorism and economic challenges to what he described as the “missteps” of the former administration. Dar’s remarks centered on the perceived mistakes made during Khan's tenure and their long-term impact on the country’s current situation.
During the event, Mr. Dar addressed various topics, including UK-Pakistan relations, the political situation in Pakistan, and the country's security issues. Although he expressed regret over the errors made by past governments and military officials, he remained optimistic about Pakistan's future, projecting confidence in the country’s ability to overcome its challenges.
Mr. Dar had arrived in London on an official visit, during which he met members of the British government and the Pakistani diaspora. He described the trip as “useful, busy, and fruitful.” However, the most significant part of his statements was an indirect reference to a “three-star general” who had visited Kabul in 2021. He linked decisions made by the former spymaster, Lt Gen Faiz Hameed, to the resurgence of terrorism in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan.
According to Dar, militants released during that time are now responsible for the increase in terrorist activities. Without directly naming Gen Hameed, Dar pointed to the general's Kabul visit, where he was famously photographed having a cup of tea, implying that the consequences of that visit are still being felt. Dar remarked, “The country is paying a price for that cup of tea in Afghanistan,” highlighting the long-term effects of those actions.