No deal with those trying to harm Pakistan: Dar

LONDON: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said Sunday there will be no deal with those who are trying to harm Pakistan.

Talking to media here after meeting PM Shehbaz Sharif and Nawaz Sharif, Dar criticised the PTI leadership and accused them of attacking Pakistan interests.

Dar said the Punjab government is planning celebrating a ‘safe Basant’ or the festival of kites.

Last week, media reported that the Punjab government was preparing to celebrate a safe and regulated Basant festival in Lahore in February 2026.

As per the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, a high-level committee has been formed to chalk out a strategy for the event.

Sources said that authorities were considering hosting the Basant festival in the Walled City area and celebrating it over two designated days. The plan also includes a proposal to ban motorcycles for two days during the event to prevent accidents and ensure safety. Only district administration-registered vendors will be allowed to sell and buy kites, while those making kite twine will also need prior registration with authorities.

Dar has said Pakistan has seriously raised the issue of killings of eight Pakistanis in Iran. He called on the Iranian government to look into the matter and provide answers.