WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that “Project Freedom” was halted at Pakistan’s request.
According to reports, Rubio said Pakistan conveyed that suspending the project in the Strait of Hormuz could help enable an agreement with Iran.
He added that the United States paused the initiative to allow space for diplomacy. He also said that President Donald Trump preferred diplomatic engagement.
In a separate development, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan is gaining global recognition as an honest mediator and trusted partner.
In an interview with The Sunday Times, the prime minister said Iran, the United States, and Gulf states have placed confidence in Pakistan. He said they now view Pakistan as a credible facilitator for peace talks.
He added that coordination between political and military leadership has strengthened Pakistan’s international image.
The prime minister said Pakistan continues sustained diplomatic efforts for regional and global peace.
He said Pakistan has maintained responsible diplomacy despite challenging circumstances. He also noted that the economy has stabilised and inflation has fallen to single digits over the past two years.
