PM displays optimism about prospects

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday announced that American and Iranian delegations are due to visit Pakistan on 10 April, expressing optimism that the talks will pave the way for lasting peace in the Middle East.

Speaking at a federal cabinet meeting, the PM said a two-week ceasefire had temporarily halted the war, but the ultimate goal remained the establishment of lasting and sustainable peace in the region.

He praised Field Marshal Gen Asim Munir for his pivotal role in the diplomatic engagement between Iran and the United States, noting that Gen Munir had stayed awake for several nights, maintaining continuous contact with the leadership of both Iran and the US to facilitate dialogue.

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The cabinet session, which opened with applause for the prime minister, also saw sweets served to members, reflecting a celebratory mood within the government following the two-week ceasefire in the US-Israel war against Iran. During the meeting, it was decided to observe Friday as a Day of Gratitude, urging citizens nationwide to offer special prayers for the success of the peace negotiations.

Addressing the cabinet, Sharif said Pakistan’s tireless efforts, in coordination with friendly countries, had been successful and deserved public recognition.

He observed that the flames of war had come perilously close to engulfing the entire region, causing widespread distress, but the ceasefire had conferred honour and respect upon Pakistan.

He described this diplomatic success as a victory for the country’s entire population of 240 million. “The flames of conflict have been subdued for two weeks, and today Pakistan has been blessed with immense success and honour. International media are highlighting our achievement – a moment to prostrate in gratitude before God,” he remarked.

The prime minister also acknowledged the relentless efforts of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and his team, alongside Field Marshal Munir, who worked tirelessly to maintain communication with American and Iranian leaders.

At the prime minister’s special request, the cabinet broke into a round of applause to honour Field Marshal Asim Munir’s dedication.

Sharif underscored the unprecedented unity between the country’s political and military leadership, crediting this cohesion with playing a significant role in promoting peace among Muslim-majority nations.

He extended appreciation to Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian for acceding to his request, and to US President Donald Trump for agreeing to a temporary two-week ceasefire.

He also thanked Qatar, Turkey, Egypt, Oman, Indonesia, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia for their support, noting his personal conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman regarding the recent attack on the kingdom’s largest oil complex, in which he offered condolences and reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity.

A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office said the federal cabinet praised Prime Minister Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, for successfully mediating a ceasefire amid escalating regional tensions.

It also highlighted that the Prime Minister Sharif’s arrival had been met with resounding applause, reflecting the cabinet’s recognition of the breakthrough.

Sharif provided a detailed briefing on Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives aimed at defusing tensions in the Gulf region, emphasising the country’s central role in achieving the ceasefire, which has garnered widespread international approval.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026