ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has rejected suggestions that it has stepped back from efforts to promote peace between Iran and the United States, saying diplomatic initiatives remain active despite heightened regional tensions.
Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi told a weekly press briefing that while tensions currently dominate the situation, peace efforts have not ended and negotiations remain the only viable path to resolving the conflict.
He said the Islamabad Memorandum remains a valid and effective framework for peace and would continue to serve as the basis for dialogue once the parties move away from confrontation. He also referred to the June 22 Pakistan-Qatar joint communiqué as providing a roadmap for implementing the peace process.
Andrabi reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding position of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states and condemning armed attacks. He said Pakistan has consistently advocated dialogue and diplomacy throughout every stage of the conflict.
The spokesperson stressed the need for the early restoration of normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, warning that the ongoing tensions are affecting global energy supplies, trade and food security.
He said Pakistan remains in close diplomatic contact with key regional countries to help reduce tensions and encourage negotiations.
Highlighting recent diplomatic engagements, Andrabi said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke separately with the Amir of Qatar and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on July 10, urging restraint, de-escalation and the immediate restoration of peace and stability in the region.
The spokesperson also said Pakistan and the United States have made significant progress in ongoing trade negotiations aimed at expanding bilateral trade and diversifying Pakistani exports. He added that talks would continue through existing communication channels.
