Diplomatic Backing
On the sidelines of the 17th Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) Summit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held high-level meetings with Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace, economic integration, and strengthened bilateral partnerships.
In a cordial meeting with President Pezeshkian, Prime Minister Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s support for peaceful conflict resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.
The two leaders conducted a comprehensive review of ongoing bilateral cooperation in multiple sectors, expressing satisfaction with the progress made on previously agreed-upon initiatives. They agreed to maintain close coordination and constructive engagement to further deepen Pakistan-Iran ties.
The evolving regional situation, particularly in light of Israel’s recent aggression against Iran, was a central theme of their conversation. Prime Minister Shehbaz condemned the Israeli provocations in unequivocal terms and reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast solidarity with Iran during these challenging times.
He commended Iran’s decision to observe restraint and move toward a ceasefire, calling it a “wise and commendable” act of statesmanship. He also praised President Pezeshkian’s leadership and diplomacy in defusing regional tensions.
President Pezeshkian, in turn, expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s strong diplomatic backing and acknowledged Islamabad’s consistent support at international platforms.
He thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz for playing a vital role in promoting calm and stability in the region during a critical moment. As a gesture of goodwill and fraternal ties, Prime Minister Shehbaz also extended warm greetings to Iran’s Supreme Leader through President Pezeshkian.
Later, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Both leaders expressed satisfaction over the steady expansion of bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Uzbekistan at both multilateral and regional levels.
Emphasizing the shared cultural, historical, and civilizational ties between their nations, they reaffirmed their mutual resolve to elevate their longstanding relationship to new heights.
The leaders agreed to intensify collaboration in key areas, including trade, investment, regional security, and connectivity.
They placed particular emphasis on the strategic importance of the Trans-Afghan Railway Project, terming it a transformative initiative that would significantly boost regional integration and economic development.
They also discussed major regional and global developments, pledging to maintain regular high-level engagements. Both leaders agreed to undertake reciprocal visits to Islamabad and Tashkent in the near future to finalize pending agreements and advance joint initiatives.
