Pakistan PM highlights diplomatic outreach in call with Iranian president

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has briefed Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Islamabad's diplomatic efforts to facilitate dialogue between Washington and Tehran during a phone call that lasted over an hour, reports Dawn.

According to a statement from Pakistan's Prime Minister's Office, the two leaders discussed the ongoing regional hostilities and efforts aimed at reducing tensions through dialogue.

Shehbaz informed Pezeshkian about Pakistan's outreach to key stakeholders, including the United States, Gulf countries and other Islamic nations, to help create conditions for peace talks. He said the initiative is being carried out in coordination with countries such as Turkey and Egypt.

The Pakistan PM also highlighted the involvement of senior officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Army Chief Asim Munir, in engaging international partners to advance the initiative. He noted that the effort has received positive responses from several countries and expressed hope that a path toward de-escalation could be achieved.

During the call, Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan's condemnation of ongoing Israeli attacks on Iran, including recent strikes on civilian infrastructure. He expressed solidarity with the Iranian people and offered condolences over the reported loss of more than 1,900 lives.

Pezeshkian appreciated Pakistan's diplomatic efforts and shared Tehran's perspective on the situation. He stressed the need to build trust to enable meaningful dialogue and welcomed Pakistan's role in facilitating mediation.

Separately, the Iranian presidency also acknowledged Pakistan's efforts, thanking Islamabad for its role in attempting to halt what it described as aggression against the Islamic Republic, according to AFP.

Pakistan is set to host foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt on March 29 and 30 for discussions on regional developments, including tensions involving the United States and Iran.

Earlier, Ishaq Dar confirmed that indirect communication between Washington and Tehran is ongoing through messages conveyed by Pakistan. He said a proposed framework from the US has been shared and is currently under consideration by Iran, with support from Turkey and Egypt in advancing the process.