May 7, 2026

Pakistan’s diplomacy brings Iran and US to table after decades: PM

PM Shehbaz Sharif says Pakistan helped bring Iran and the US to the negotiating table for the first time since 1979, supporting a ceasefire path and regional peace.

Saleem Jadoon

Saleem Jadoon

May 7, 2026

Pakistan’s diplomacy brings Iran and US to table after decades: PM
  • Premier Shehbaz says Pakistan reflects growing global trust in its diplomacy

  • Expresses optimism Islamabad’s diplomatic engagement would lead to sustainable peace in region

  • Thanks leadership of both Iran and US for agreeing to ceasefire path, lauding Saudi Crown Prince, China and Turkey for regional support

  • Dar and Field Marshal Munir lauded for facilitating negotiations

  • Highlights unity of Muslim Ummah and scholars’ role, reaffirming strong stance on Palestine and Kashmir

  • Ulema urged to promote unity and national cohesion through sermons

 ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday said Pakistan successfully persuaded the Iranian and US leadership to engage in dialogue for the first time since 1979, with talks held in Islamabad on April 11 and 12, as the country emerged as a key force for peace and stability in the region through unprecedented diplomatic efforts to facilitate peace in the Middle East.

Addressing the 6th International Paigham-e-Islam Conference in Islamabad, the prime minister expressed optimism that Pakistan’s continued diplomatic engagement would lead to sustainable peace in the region. He also thanked the leadership of Iran and the United States for accepting Pakistan’s invitation and agreeing to a ceasefire.

He said Pakistan had emerged as a key force for peace and stability in the region through its diplomatic efforts in facilitating unprecedented talks between Iran and the United States, reflecting the confidence the international community places in Pakistan. He added that the country had rendered a significant service aimed at ensuring peace and stability in the region.

The prime minister said the conference reflected the unity of the Muslim Ummah and acknowledged the vital role of religious scholars in promoting harmony and cohesion.

Advisor to the President of Palestine on Religious Affairs and Islamic Relations and Supreme Judge (Qazi ul Qaza) of Palestine Dr. Mahmoud Al-Habbash, Grand Mufti of Jerusalem and Palestine Sheikh Muhammad Ahmad Hussein, Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, and Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmad Al-Malkiy also attended the event.

PM Shehbaz paid tribute to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his key role in maintaining regional peace. He also acknowledged the support of China, Turkey, and other friendly countries in promoting stability and dialogue.

Commending national leadership, the prime minister appreciated Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for their efforts in bringing both sides to the negotiating table.

He prayed for the success of Pakistan’s efforts toward achieving a permanent ceasefire and reiterated the importance of strong bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia, noting that ties had reached new heights, including enhanced defence cooperation. He reaffirmed that the protection of Harmain Sharifain remained a matter of faith for Pakistan.

Referring to recent challenges, the prime minister said the entire nation stood united beyond sectarian differences and reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to peace and stability.

He urged religious scholars (Ulema) to play a proactive role in promoting unity and national cohesion through their sermons, encouraging collective strength for national stability.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s principled stance on Palestine and Kashmir, he said Pakistan would continue supporting their peoples until they achieve freedom and independence. He also strongly condemned elements involved in terrorism and attempts to divide the Muslim Ummah.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, the prime minister distributed shields among prominent personalities in recognition of their outstanding services to the Muslim Ummah.

Dar underscores Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and stability

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, speaking on the occasion, reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and stability, highlighting sustained diplomatic engagement for de-escalation and dialogue in the region and beyond.

He reiterated Pakistan’s principled stance on Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine, and emphasized the importance of Muslim unity, the central role of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and collective action for the welfare of the Ummah. He also highlighted Pakistan’s leadership role in countering Islamophobia globally and promoting interfaith harmony.

The deputy prime minister paid tribute to Pakistan’s resilience and national resolve, reflecting on the anniversary of “Marka-e-Haq.”

He stressed that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, peace, progress, and prosperity remained central pillars of Pakistan’s national vision.

Ashrafi highlights Pakistan’s diplomatic role

Chairman Pakistan Ulema Council Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi said Pakistan had consistently raised the issue of Palestine at every international forum and had made sustained efforts over the past two months to promote peace.

He reiterated that Pakistan’s commitment to the Palestinian cause remained firm and unwavering.

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Saleem Jadoon
Saleem Jadoon

News Editor at Pakistan Today

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