FM Ishaq Dar appointed as deputy prime minister

In a surprising turn of events, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has been named as the Deputy Prime Minister of the country, as announced by a notification issued by the Cabinet Division on Sunday.

The notification stated, “The Prime Minister has been pleased to designate Mr. Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, as Deputy Prime Minister with immediate effect and until further orders.”

Dar, 73, who is a chartered accountant and a veteran politician, assumed the role of foreign minister following the formation of a coalition government by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) after the February 8 elections. Known for his close association with PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif, Dar’s appointment signals a strategic move to leverage his expertise in economic matters within the realm of diplomacy.

With Dar’s background as a four-time finance minister, his appointment underscores the growing importance of economic diplomacy in Pakistan’s foreign affairs agenda. His pivotal role in securing international deals, including negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and attracting foreign investments, is expected to enhance Pakistan’s standing on the global stage.

“Economic diplomacy is the need of the hour for sure,” Dar remarked following his appointment in March, highlighting the significance of integrating economic priorities into diplomatic endeavors.

Dar’s elevation to the position of Deputy Prime Minister marks a rare occurrence in Pakistani politics. Previously, only Pervaiz Elahi, a leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), had held the title of deputy prime minister in 2012 during a political alliance between the Pakistan People’s Party and the PML-Q.