ISLAMABAD: Britain has commended Pakistan’s constructive diplomatic efforts in facilitating the recent US-Iran agreement and reaffirmed Islamabad’s right under international law to defend itself against attacks originating from Afghanistan, as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Middle East, Afghanistan and Pakistan Hamish Falconer held talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Islamabad on Monday.
During the meeting, Falconer conveyed the United Kingdom’s appreciation for Pakistan’s role in helping advance the US-Iran understanding. The two sides reviewed bilateral relations and exchanged views on key regional and international developments.
DPM/FM Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 received Mr. Hamish Falconer MP @HFalconerMP Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the FCDO.
Mr Falconer conveyed deep appreciation for Pakistan’s constructive diplomatic role in facilitating the US–Iran agreement.
The two… pic.twitter.com/KDSuxH9b1Z
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) June 15, 2026
The British minister acknowledged Pakistan’s security concerns arising from cross-border terrorism and stressed that any country facing threats from outside its borders had the right to protect its citizens in accordance with international law. At the same time, he emphasised the importance of dialogue and cooperation between Islamabad and Kabul to achieve lasting peace and stability.
Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to dialogue and diplomacy as the preferred means of promoting durable regional peace, while both sides reiterated their resolve to further strengthen Pakistan-UK cooperation and maintain close engagement on issues of mutual interest.
Speaking during his visit to Islamabad, Falconer said any state confronted with cross-border threats had the legitimate right to defend its citizens, provided such measures were undertaken within the framework of international law.
His remarks come amid growing security concerns and a series of recent retaliatory strikes by Pakistan against terrorist groups operating from across the Afghan border.
Meanwhile, in an interview, the British official expressed sorrow over the recent loss of lives in Pakistan and described the prevailing security environment as deeply troubling. He stressed that civilian casualties, whether in Pakistan or Afghanistan, were a matter of grave concern and should be avoided at all costs.
He noted that security challenges emanating from Afghanistan were not confined to one country and could affect neighbouring states and the wider international community, underscoring the need for collective efforts to find sustainable, long-term solutions.
During his meetings with senior Pakistani officials, including Ishaq Dar, Falconer discussed a range of regional and international developments. The talks covered the recent US-Iran peace agreement, the need to preserve stability in the Strait of Hormuz and the importance of ensuring uninterrupted global trade and maritime routes.
Afghanistan featured prominently in the discussions, with the British official describing the country as pivotal to regional peace and security. Acknowledging Pakistan’s concerns over terrorist violence, Falconer said British authorities had remained in close contact with their Pakistani counterparts to gain a clearer understanding of the evolving situation.
“It is clear from our discussions that Pakistan believes some of the threats it faces originate from across the border,” he said. “That is a serious concern and one that requires careful assessment and cooperation.”
Falconer reiterated that preventing further escalation should remain the foremost priority and underlined the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement between Islamabad and Kabul to address shared security challenges and build confidence between the two neighbours.
“The most effective way forward is through dialogue,” he said, acknowledging Pakistan’s frustration over the current state of coordination with Afghanistan. He said there must be a shared understanding to ensure that Afghan territory is not used to launch attacks against Pakistan.
The British minister also highlighted the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, describing bilateral ties as deep-rooted and extending far beyond traditional diplomacy.
“Our relationship is not just a foreign partnership; it is built on community links that resemble a family bond,” Falconer remarked, pointing to the strong people-to-people connections underpinning relations between the two countries.
Commenting on the issue of Afghan refugees residing in Pakistan, the British official stressed the need to uphold international legal obligations while recognising the complexities involved. He noted that the matter primarily required cooperation and understanding between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Falconer said his visit had helped strengthen bilateral cooperation and enhance mutual understanding on key regional issues. He expressed optimism that continued engagement between the two countries would help address pressing challenges and promote peace and stability across the region.
