UNTED NATIONS: Amid ongoing Iran-US tensions, Pakistan Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday, during which they exchanged views on the evolving regional situation and agreed to work toward peace, security, and prosperity, according to an official press release.
The meeting, held in a cordial atmosphere, took place on the sidelines of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, now in its third day.
Over the last few days, both Iran and the United States have said that they were open to dialogue between them aimed at resolving the crisis stemming from US-Israeli attacks on the Islamic Republic. But whether a high-level Iran-US meeting takes place remains to be seen.
In this regard, Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed deep concern over the prolonged conflict between Iran and the US and emphasized the need for restraint, de-escalation, and sustained diplomatic engagement to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region, the press release said.
He also underscored the importance of implementing the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to continue playing a “sincere and constructive” role in support of regional peace and stability.
On his part, President Pezeshkian expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s principled diplomacy and concerted efforts for regional peace and security. The Iranian leader also underscored the enduring strength of Pakistan-Iran relations, rooted in shared history, culture, and faith, and reaffirmed Tehran’s strong desire to further deepen multifaceted cooperation.
Underlining the importance of maintaining regular consultations and close coordination to address the prevailing challenges and seize the opportunities, the two sides agreed to work for regional peace, security, and prosperity.
According to the press release, the two leaders also reaffirmed the close and longstanding ties between Pakistan and Iran and underscored the need to further strengthen bilateral cooperation across all areas of mutual Interest.
Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi, along with senior officials from both sides, were also present.
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