Punjab Assembly resolution seeks Nobel Peace Prize nominations for PM, Munir and Dar

ISLAMABAD: A resolution has been submitted in the Punjab Assembly calling for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar to be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize over what it describes as their diplomatic role in easing tensions linked to the Middle East crisis.

The resolution was moved by PML-N Chief Whip Rana Muhammad Arshad. It commends the three leaders for what it terms effective diplomacy and says their efforts helped advance peace and stability in the region.

According to the resolution, tensions involving Israel, the United States and Iran had intensified and were posing a serious threat to global peace. It says the conflict in the Middle East could turn into a major international crisis at any time, and argues that the prime minister, the CDF and the deputy prime minister should be recognised for their diplomatic efforts through Nobel Peace Prize nominations.

Pakistan drew international attention after Islamabad brokered a temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran shortly before US President Donald Trump’s warning of ‘hell’ was due to expire. Trump later announced late on Tuesday night that he had agreed to a two-week ceasefire with Iran following discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz and Field Marshal Munir.

During those efforts, Prime Minister Shehbaz asked Trump to extend his deadline by two weeks to allow diplomacy more time, and the US president accepted that request. Deputy Prime Minister Dar remained in contact with stakeholders, including Washington, and played what the resolution described as a key part in bringing the United States and Iran to the table.

The resolution also says Pakistan is set to host delegations from the United States and Iran after the announcement of the temporary ceasefire arranged by Islamabad.

PM, Munir review mediation efforts

Separately, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir on Thursday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to supporting both Iran and the United States in efforts to reach a peaceful agreement after the earlier two-week ceasefire.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, Field Marshal Munir called on the prime minister and the two reviewed progress in Pakistan’s mediation efforts aimed at securing lasting peace in the region.

The leadership appreciated the restraint demonstrated by all sides and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to facilitate and provide all out support to both the sides to arrive at a peacefully negotiated settlement, the PMO said.

The statement added that both leaders expressed satisfaction over the de-escalation achieved so far and stressed the need to preserve the ceasefire and ensure continued restraint by all parties.

It further said the prime minister praised the commitment shown by the parties involved and wished them success in their pursuit of peace. He also renewed his invitation to the arriving delegations and assured them of Pakistan’s highest consideration and support.