PM Shehbaz, President Pezeshkian discuss post-peace deal cooperation in phone call

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday discussed bilateral relations and regional peace during their first telephone conversation since the signing of the Islamabad Peace Deal, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said.

According to a statement issued by the PMO, the call lasted more than 30 minutes, during which the prime minister congratulated the Iranian president, leadership and people on the signing of the peace agreement.

Calling it a “historic” development, Shehbaz said the deal would help restore peace in the region, contribute to Iran’s reconstruction efforts and further strengthen Pakistan-Iran relations across areas of mutual interest.

The prime minister also conveyed his regards to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Sayyid Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei.

While welcoming Tehran’s decision to sign the agreement, Shehbaz expressed confidence in the success of the next phase of negotiations and assured Iran of Pakistan’s continued support as a neighbouring and brotherly country.

President Pezeshkian thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for what he described as their critical role in facilitating the mediation process that led to the agreement.

He said Iran would always remember Pakistan’s constructive efforts and support during a difficult period, according to the statement.

The Iranian president also expressed Tehran’s desire to further expand bilateral cooperation with Pakistan in all areas of mutual interest.

The two leaders agreed to exchange visits at the earliest opportunity to advance cooperation on bilateral and regional issues. They also agreed to remain in contact in the coming days, the PMO said.