ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif told the National Assembly on Tuesday that Pakistan had played a key diplomatic role in easing tensions between Iran and the United States.
He said it was a “historic day” and added that he wanted to brief the House on national and international developments.
Sharif said Pakistan continued to play an active role in promoting peace, stability and cooperation in the region. He said diplomatic efforts at the international level remained ongoing.
He said recent global developments carried exceptional importance for regional peace. He added that Pakistan had consistently supported dialogue, diplomacy and peaceful resolution of disputes.
The prime minister said Pakistan had fulfilled its responsibilities in protecting national interests.
He said important progress had been made in Iran-US negotiations. He added that meetings between the leadership of both countries were held in Switzerland.
Sharif said Pakistan played an important role in narrowing differences between the two sides and facilitating talks.
He said diplomatic efforts were carried out in good faith and with seriousness. He added that negotiations continued round the clock.
He said a joint statement was prepared late at night with the agreement of all parties and later endorsed by relevant stakeholders.
The prime minister said a ceasefire had been reached between Iran and the United States. He added that technical-level talks would continue over the next 60 days.
He said discussions would cover Iran’s nuclear programme, ballistic missile programme and frozen assets, among other issues.
Sharif said Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts had helped reduce tensions in the region. He said the country had played a positive and constructive role for peace and stability.
He congratulated the nation, parliament and opposition, and said Pakistan had played a historic and central role in the talks.
He said Pakistan’s role was being appreciated at the global level. He added that international media had also highlighted the development.
Sharif said the achievement represented a major diplomatic success for Pakistan. He said such international recognition could not be achieved even with billions of rupees in spending.
He also said Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian would arrive in Pakistan on Tuesday. He said the visit was taking place on Pakistan’s invitation.
He said the two sides would hold detailed meetings on bilateral relations, economic cooperation, regional peace and stability.
He said Pakistan sought strong and friendly relations with all its neighbouring countries.
