Dar emphasizes dialogue as only path to regional stability in call with Iranian FM

ISLAMABAD Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar told Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only workable route to peace and stability, according to a statement issued by Pakistan’s Foreign Office.

The Foreign Office said Dar held a telephone conversation with Araqchi late on Sunday night. It said the two foreign ministers discussed the regional situation and Pakistan’s continuing diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region.

According to the statement, Araqchi appreciated Pakistan for what it described as its constructive role and sincere mediation efforts. In response, Dar reiterated Islamabad’s commitment to encouraging constructive engagement between the parties.

The Foreign Office said Dar also stressed that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path toward the peaceful resolution of issues and toward lasting peace and stability in the region and beyond.

Regional tensions and stalled negotiations

The contact took place as tensions linked to the US-Iran conflict continue to affect the wider region and the global economy. Negotiations between the two sides have remained stalled since a ceasefire came into effect on April 8.

A major point of dispute has been Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz following US-Israeli attacks on Tehran. The waterway is strategically important for global trade. The blockade has disrupted major flows of oil, gas and fertiliser to the world economy, while the United States has imposed a counter-blockade on Iranian ports.

Iran’s foreign ministry has meanwhile said Tehran submitted a 14-point plan focused on ending the war. It also said Washington had already sent a response to that proposal in a message delivered to Pakistani mediators, and that Iran was reviewing the reply.

Pakistan’s mediation role

Pakistan has emerged as an important mediator between the United States and Iran, with top-level talks between the two sides having taken place in Islamabad last month. A second round has not yet been held, as the process has encountered difficulties.

The Foreign Office statement did not provide further details of the latest exchange between Dar and Araqchi beyond saying that the discussion centred on the regional situation and Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts.

The latest contact reflects Pakistan’s stated position that engagement through diplomacy is essential as efforts continue to address the conflict and its regional consequences.