Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Thursday vowed a strong response to any threat against Pakistan, saying the country would defend itself while continuing its efforts to become an economic power.

Speaking to reporters after attending the 983rd annual Ghusl ceremony at Data Darbar in Lahore, Dar said, “We will make Pakistan an economic power. If anyone looks at Pakistan with bad intentions, we will gouge out their eyes.”

Dar also claimed Pakistan played a key facilitation role during the recent US-Iran crisis. He said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir led the country’s diplomatic efforts, with Pakistan acting as a bridge between the two sides.

He said Pakistan’s role was limited to facilitating dialogue and claimed the two countries were brought to the negotiating table after decades without direct engagement. According to Dar, details of the understanding were presented before the National Assembly.

The foreign minister said Pakistan remains committed to peace and follows the United Nations Charter while respecting the sovereignty of all nations. However, he warned that any hostile action against Pakistan would be met with a firm response.

Dar said Pakistan immediately condemned the attack on Iran and maintained its position in support of regional peace throughout the conflict.

He also said Pakistan’s global image had improved, arguing that the country is now recognized internationally as a peaceful state rather than being diplomatically isolated.

On the economy, Dar said the federal budget provides relief to salaried individuals and businesses. He added that the government inherited a difficult economic situation but had succeeded in stabilizing the country’s finances.