Dar steps up diplomacy, engages Iran, Norway amid regional tensions

-- Dar-Araghchi talks focus on mediation and regional stability

-- Norway backs Pakistan’s peace efforts, invites Dar to Oslo Forum

-- High-level review confirms adequate fuel stocks amid global pressures

-- Coordinated monitoring ensures energy security, Dar informed

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Monday led a series of high-level diplomatic and policy engagements, underscoring Pakistan’s proactive role in regional peace efforts while ensuring domestic energy stability amid global uncertainties.

In a late-night telephonic conversation, Dar and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi discussed the evolving security situation in the Middle East, with a particular focus on Pakistan’s ongoing mediation efforts.

Araghchi appreciated Islamabad’s constructive diplomatic role, especially its facilitation of engagement between Iran and the United States during a period of heightened tensions. Pakistani officials have consistently emphasised that backchannel diplomacy remains active despite complex geopolitical dynamics.

Dar reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to dialogue-driven solutions, stressing that sustained engagement is essential to de-escalate tensions and achieve durable peace in the region and beyond.

Separately, Dar received Norway’s Deputy Foreign Minister Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik in Islamabad, where both sides exchanged views on regional developments and global security challenges.

Kravik expressed Norway’s support for Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach and mediation initiatives, acknowledging Islamabad’s role as a facilitator in ongoing efforts to reduce tensions.

The Norwegian side also extended an invitation to Dar to participate in the upcoming Oslo Forum, a key global platform for conflict mediation and dialogue. Dar welcomed the invitation, with both sides agreeing to expand cooperation in trade, development and multilateral engagement.

In parallel with diplomatic engagements, Dar chaired a high-level meeting to assess Pakistan’s petroleum, oil and lubricants (POL) stock position, amid volatility in global energy markets.

Officials informed the meeting that, with scheduled shipments accounted for, the country has sufficient fuel reserves to meet demand until at least the third week of June. The briefing also highlighted robust supply chain monitoring mechanisms to prevent disruptions.

Senior representatives, including officials from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority and key ministries, participated in the review, which emphasised maintaining strategic reserves in light of external uncertainties.

The meeting was further told that fuel supply and distribution are being closely monitored through the National Coordination and Management Committee, ensuring real-time oversight and swift response to potential challenges.

Dar commended the coordinated efforts of all stakeholders for maintaining uninterrupted fuel availability, particularly at a time when global energy supply chains remain under strain due to geopolitical tensions.

The developments reflect a dual-track approach by Pakistan—actively engaging in international diplomacy to ease regional tensions while reinforcing domestic preparedness to safeguard economic stability and energy security.