ISLAMABAD: Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani arrived in Islamabad on Wednesday night for talks with Pakistan’s leadership on bilateral relations and regional developments.
Al-Shaibani is leading a high-level Syrian delegation during his visit. It marks the first visit by a Syrian foreign minister to Pakistan in 19 years, according to Syrian state media.
The visit comes as tensions remain high in the region amid the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran.
Pakistan’s state broadcaster Radio Pakistan said the two sides would hold detailed talks on bilateral relations. They would also discuss ways to expand cooperation and exchange views on regional and international issues.
The Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) said the visit reflects the importance of strengthening ties and increasing communication between Islamabad and Damascus.
Regional Tensions Remain High
Regional tensions escalated further on Wednesday after Iran’s armed forces warned Gulf countries against providing assistance to the US military.
Iranian Armed Forces Chief of Staff Ali Abdollahi said any assistance or facilitation for US forces would amount to participation in American military operations, according to Iran’s Mehr news agency.
The conflict has pushed global oil prices higher and increased inflationary pressures in several countries.
Pakistan has sought to play a diplomatic role between Washington and Tehran since the conflict began. Islamabad has relayed messages between the two sides and supported efforts to reduce tensions.
Tensions increased again after the United States launched an attack on Iran in July. Washington accused Tehran of violating a peace agreement by attacking commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran rejected the allegation and retaliated by targeting US military positions in the Gulf region.
Malaysian Home Minister Also Visits Islamabad
Meanwhile, Malaysian Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution bin Ismail arrived in Islamabad on Wednesday for a two-day official visit.
Pakistan’s Interior Ministry said Ismail was visiting at the invitation of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
The two ministers are expected to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral ties and expand cooperation between Pakistan and Malaysia.
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The Malaysian minister will also meet senior Pakistani officials during his visit, the ministry said.
