ISLAMABAD: Pakistan remains in close contact with the United States and is actively engaged in diplomatic consultations to reduce tensions and promote negotiations, the Foreign Office said.
Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi stated that Pakistan is working to create a conducive environment for de-escalation and meaningful dialogue among stakeholders. The ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, which began on February 28, has impacted the wider Middle East and caused economic disruptions, including issues in oil and gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
Pakistan has hosted ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt, and conveyed messages between Washington and Tehran. Both Iran and the US have expressed confidence in Pakistanās facilitation efforts, and Islamabad has offered to host negotiations. The FO said there is no clarity regarding Israelās role in the talks. Pakistan remains in contact with the US, European partners, OIC, and GCC countries to support dialogue and diplomacy.
Andrabi emphasized that consultative processes should not be seen as alliances and that Pakistan is not pressuring any party. Iran, as a sovereign state, determines its own policies.
Regarding diplomatic developments, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Darās visit to China resulted in a joint five-point peace plan with China, which has gained international recognition. The plan has been shared with Iran, the US, and other stakeholders.
Global leaders, including those from Malaysia and Europe, have supported Pakistanās peace efforts. The President of the European Council has also expressed support. Additionally, 20 Pakistani-flagged vessels have been permitted to transit, which the FO described as a positive step for regional stability.
Pak-Afghan talks in Urumqi
Pakistan has sent a delegation to Urumqi, China, for talks with Afghanistan. The meeting follows Ishaq Darās visit to Beijing, where he met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. China is mediating tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Pakistan maintains it is targeting militants responsible for cross-border attacks.nThe FO confirmed there is no change in Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq, and security operations continue.
Indiaās stance on sectarian identity
The FO criticized India for attempting to assign a separate identity to the Shia community, calling it a dangerous and divisive approach. It emphasized that Shia and Sunni are schools of thought within Islam and warned that such narratives could fuel sectarianism.
