FO: Iran, US Express Confidence in Pakistan’s Role; Delegation Heads to China
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is maintaining close contact with United States leadership and remains actively engaged in ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at easing tensions and opening the door for meaningful negotiations, the Foreign Office said.
“Pakistan is working to create a conducive environment for de-escalation and dialogue,” Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi told reporters in Islamabad, adding that the next phase would focus on facilitating substantive talks among key stakeholders.
The conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, which began on February 28, has continued for over a month, impacting the broader Middle East. The situation has also triggered significant economic repercussions, particularly due to disruptions in oil and gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, affecting global markets.
Pakistan has recently hosted senior regional officials from Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt, while also relaying messages between Washington and Tehran as part of its diplomatic engagement.
During the weekly briefing, the spokesperson said both Iran and the United States have expressed confidence in Pakistan’s role and acknowledged its facilitation efforts. He added that Pakistan has also offered to host negotiations as part of its broader push for dialogue.
Responding to questions, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi said there was no information regarding Israel’s involvement in the ongoing negotiation process. He added that Pakistan remains in contact with the United States, European partners, as well as OIC and GCC member states.
“Despite challenges, Pakistan will continue its efforts to promote facilitation and dialogue,” Andrabi said, emphasizing that the country aims to achieve de-escalation and a sustainable resolution through meaningful negotiations.
He clarified that discussions about a four-country consultative process should not be viewed prematurely as an alliance, noting that the focus is on strengthening cooperation and coordination among participating states. “These consultations are meant to advance shared interests,” he said, adding that Pakistan is not pressuring any party but supporting diplomatic engagement.
Andrabi also stressed that Iran, as a sovereign state, determines its own policies, and Pakistan’s role should not be seen as coercive.
Referring to Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s recent visit to China, he said the joint five-point peace plan proposed by Pakistan and China has gained recognition at both regional and global levels. The plan has been shared with Iran, the United States, and other stakeholders, while consultations continue. He noted that the proposals align with the communiqué issued after the four-country meeting in Islamabad.
Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts, he said, are being viewed as a meaningful step toward achieving a ceasefire, reducing tensions, and ensuring lasting peace. Andrabi added that several countries, including Malaysia and European nations, have expressed support for Pakistan’s initiatives, while the President of the European Council has also endorsed the peace efforts.
He further revealed that permission has been granted for 20 Pakistani-flagged vessels to transit, calling it a positive development for regional stability. These ships are continuing operations as scheduled, though further details about their routes were not immediately available.
Pak-Afghan Talks in Urumqi
Separately, the Foreign Office confirmed that Pakistan has sent a delegation to Urumqi, China, for talks with Afghanistan. Senior officials are representing Pakistan, although full details of the delegation have not been disclosed.
The meeting follows Ishaq Dar’s visit to Beijing, where he met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. China has been attempting to mediate tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Pakistan maintains that it is targeting militant groups responsible for cross-border attacks. Islamabad conducted airstrikes in Afghanistan on February 26, alleging that the Taliban were providing safe havens to such militants.
Andrabi said there has been no change in Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq, with security operations continuing alongside diplomatic efforts. He stressed that ongoing negotiations have not affected counterterrorism actions.
India’s Remarks on Sectarian Identity
Commenting on India’s stance, the spokesperson said attempts to assign a separate identity to the Shia community reflect a misunderstanding of Islam and pose a dangerous trend.
He emphasized that Shia and Sunni represent different schools of thought within Islam and should not be portrayed as majority and minority groups. Andrabi warned that such narratives could fuel sectarian divisions, which would be harmful not only for Pakistan but also for India.
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