RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has praised the mediation efforts of Pakistan and Qatar in helping facilitate a ceasefire and peace agreement between the United States and Iran.
In a statement issued following a meeting of the Saudi Cabinet, the kingdom welcomed the decision by Washington and Tehran to end military hostilities and begin detailed negotiations aimed at reaching a lasting agreement. Saudi Arabia described the diplomatic and mediation efforts undertaken by Pakistan and Qatar as valuable contributions to the breakthrough.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, the cabinet meeting was chaired by Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. The cabinet expressed hope that the process would lead to lasting peace in the region and the full restoration of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime corridor for global energy supplies.
The Saudi statement comes as Iranian oil exports have begun to recover following the end of the conflict between the United States and Iran, while maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz is gradually returning to normal.
According to reports, a new round of negotiations between the United States and Iran is expected to begin in Switzerland on Friday, focusing on key issues including Iran’s nuclear program and the possible easing of international sanctions.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said decisions regarding nuclear-related matters and sanctions relief would be addressed during the upcoming talks. However, he also stressed that a lasting peace in the region would require an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon.
Meanwhile, Pakistani defense officials said that without Pakistan’s efforts to facilitate dialogue between Washington and Tehran, there was a risk that a broader conflict could have emerged within the Muslim world.
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According to the officials, Pakistan’s objective was solely to help make negotiations successful. For that reason, mediation efforts were advanced through quiet diplomacy rather than public promotion or political gain.
