Pakistan has reiterated its hope for achieving peace in West Asia despite the increasing tensions between the US and Iran. This position was underscored by recent comments from officials who expressed a strong preference for dialogue and diplomatic efforts to ensure stability in the region. The remarks followed discussions between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian leaders that took place during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit earlier this week.

At a weekly briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi highlighted that Prime Minister Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to achieving peace through measures such as restraint and dialogue. Andrabi stated that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) established in Islamabad represents a viable path to enduring peace and stability in the region.

Andrabi noted, “Despite recent escalations, we remain hopeful, and we will continue to strive for dialogue and diplomacy.” This sentiment was echoed by Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who also met Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to discuss the need for ongoing diplomatic engagements.

Recent Developments Involving Iran and the US

In June, the US and Iran had signed a Memorandum of Understanding intended to promote peace in West Asia, with Pakistan acting as a guarantor of the agreement. However, relations deteriorated in early July following renewed military actions, culminating in mutual accusations of non-compliance with the terms of the MoU. The ongoing deadlock has been exacerbated by disputes concerning the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which significant global energy supplies transit.

Andrabi also revealed that Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir visited Tehran last week. This trip aimed to facilitate the resolution of the continuing US-Iran hostilities and was described as an indication of Islamabad’s genuine efforts to mediate differences between Washington and Tehran.

Additionally, Andrabi referred to the inaugural meeting of the Strategic, Political, and Defence Committee, established under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement on August 31. This gathering reaffirmed the commitment of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye to cooperate toward regional peace and stability, promoting de-escalation through restraint and peaceful crisis resolution.

Pakistan’s Strategic Defence Initiatives

The trilateral defence agreement, signed on August 7, signifies a mutual security commitment among the three nations, stating that an attack on one will be seen as an attack on all. This framework has emerged in response to escalating security concerns in West Asia. Andrabi confirmed that the three participating countries intend to institutionalise their cooperation, thereby enhancing solidarity, collective deterrence, and cooperative security to achieve just and lasting peace.

Moreover, a secretariat, headed by a secretary-general, will be established in Saudi Arabia, with Pakistan initially holding this position for three years. These initiatives reflect Pakistan’s concerted efforts to foster an environment conducive to dialogue, restraint, and regional de-escalation amid ongoing tensions in the area.

In summary, Pakistan’s recent statements and diplomatic engagements with Iran, along with the new trilateral defence framework with Saudi Arabia and Turkiye, are clear indicators of its aim to foster a peaceful resolution to the complex geopolitical landscape of West Asia.

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