PM Shehbaz Extends Formal Invitation to Iranian President for Crucial US-Iran Dialogue
In a significant diplomatic move, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif engaged in a warm and cordial telephone conversation with Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian on Sunday night. The discussion, which lasted approximately forty-five minutes, focused on enhancing regional stability and formally inviting Iran's team to participate in the upcoming second round of Iran-United States talks.
Details of the High-Level Exchange
During their detailed exchanges on the current regional situation, Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed gratitude to President Pezeshkian and the Iranian leadership for dispatching a high-powered delegation to Islamabad earlier. This delegation, led by Honorable Speaker Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, had participated in talks on April 11-12, 2026, setting the stage for further negotiations.
The Prime Minister also briefed the Iranian President on his recent engagements with key world leaders, including those from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkiye. He emphasized that these interactions have been instrumental in building consensus to support a sustained process of dialogue and diplomacy, aimed at achieving lasting peace in the war-ravaged region.
Reaffirmation of Pakistan's Commitment to Peace
Prime Minister Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering commitment to advancing regional peace and security, with the support of friends and partners. He conveyed his respectful regards for the Supreme Leader, His Eminence Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, highlighting the importance of mutual respect in diplomatic relations.
Additionally, the Prime Minister thanked the Iranian leadership for their constructive conversations with Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir during his recent visit to Tehran, underscoring the collaborative efforts between the two nations.
Iran's Response and Future Prospects
President Pezeshkian expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Shehbaz and Field Marshal Munir's dedication to the success of peace efforts. He affirmed that relations between Iran and Pakistan are poised to grow stronger in the coming days, reflecting a positive outlook for bilateral cooperation.
This invitation comes amid heightened regional tensions, with Iran warning that the security of the Strait of Hormuz cannot be assured if the country's oil exports are restricted. Meanwhile, the White House has announced that US Vice President Vance will travel to Pakistan for the Iran talks, indicating the international significance of these discussions.
Pakistan continues to intensify its diplomatic engagements, positioning itself as a key mediator in fostering dialogue between Iran and the United States. The second round of talks, scheduled for Tuesday, April 21st, in Islamabad, is expected to be a pivotal moment in efforts to de-escalate regional conflicts and promote lasting stability.
