Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday urged the United States and Iran to uphold commitments made under their framework peace deal signed last month, known as the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. In a telephone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, the Pakistani leader called on Iran and “all other parties” to exercise restraint and refrain from any action that could jeopardize the “hard-earned” peace gains achieved over the past few months, according to a statement from Sharif’s office.
Framework Pact as Enduring Peace Foundation
Describing the framework pact – reached with Pakistani mediation – as an “enduring” framework for promoting mutual understanding, respect, and shared prosperity in the region and beyond, Sharif expressed “deep” concern over the recent escalation in tensions and underscored the “urgent” need to restore regional peace and stability. Reaffirming Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to regional peace, he assured Pezeshkian of Pakistan’s readiness to continue playing an “honest and sincere” role in facilitating dialogue and supporting all efforts aimed at preserving peace and stability.
Pezeshkian, in return, thanked Pakistan’s leadership for attending the funeral ceremony of slain Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, who was killed on February 28, the first day of the war. He also reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to peace and praised Pakistan’s “constructive” support and sincere efforts for regional stability.
Review of Bilateral Cooperation
The two leaders also reviewed implementation of decisions taken during Pezeshkian’s visit to Islamabad last month and agreed to expedite follow-up actions to further strengthen bilateral cooperation across numerous fields. They agreed to remain in close contact and continue consultations on matters of mutual interest and regional peace.
In a separate telephone call, Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and PM Shehbaz Sharif called for “sustained” diplomatic engagement and dialogue and adherence to commitments made by all parties under the peace memorandum. While conveying Pakistan’s solidarity with and support for the people of Qatar on recent attacks, PM Sharif stressed that “all parties” should exercise restraint and refrain from any actions that could undermine peace in the region. The Qatari leader thanked the Pakistani leadership for playing a “leading” role for peace in the region and assured him of Doha’s “continued” support in this regard.
Commitment to Multilateralism with UN Candidates
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to multilateralism in meetings with candidates for the UN secretary-general position. In a post on X, Sharif stated, “Delighted to welcome Ms. Rebeca Grynspan, candidate for the position of UN Secretary-General, to Islamabad today,” adding, “In our meeting, I reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to multilateralism, the UN Charter, and a stronger United Nations that advances peace and security, development, and human rights in a balanced manner.” He also underscored the importance of accelerating the global development agenda and thanked Grynspan for her appreciation of Pakistan’s longstanding contributions to the UN and recent efforts to promote regional peace.
In a separate post about his meeting with Macky Sall, candidate for the UN Secretary-General position, the prime minister wrote, “During the meeting, I reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to multilateralism, the UN Charter, and a stronger United Nations that advances peace, development and human rights in a balanced manner.” He also thanked Sall for his recognition and appreciation of Pakistan’s contributions to the UN and continued efforts to promote dialogue, diplomacy, and peace.
Gilgit-Baltistan Development Priority
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday termed the development of Gilgit-Baltistan a priority of the federal government, saying special attention was being paid to improve infrastructure, communications, energy, education, health, and tourism sectors besides increasing employment opportunities in the region. In a meeting with newly-elected members of the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly belonging to the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), he said the local economy would be further strengthened by utilizing natural resources, tourist destinations, and mineral reserves.
He said providing quality education, modern technical training, and dignified employment to youth was a key priority, enabling them to play a role in national development. He noted that elected representatives served as a direct source of awareness of public expectations, problems, and priorities, and emphasized that regardless of political affiliations, the sole purpose of leadership must be public service and creating ease in people’s lives.
Appreciating the people of Gilgit-Baltistan for proving their love, loyalty, and national unity, the prime minister told lawmakers that construction of four Daanish Schools in the region was in the final stage, with classes commencing next year. Additionally, work was underway on a solar power project of 100 megawatts, and the federal government was utilizing all available resources to ensure timely completion of ongoing development projects.
Climate Early Warning System Installed
Prime Minister Shehbaz said an early warning system for climate change and Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) had been installed in Gilgit-Baltistan to provide timely information to residents and help them cope with adverse weather conditions. He stressed that effective communication between the federal government and local leadership was indispensable for resolving public issues, ensuring better governance, and promoting transparency.
Assuring the delegation of considering their suggestions, the prime minister said the government would work in coordination with them for the welfare of the people. He urged parliamentarians to play a constructive role, expressing hope that through collective efforts, Gilgit-Baltistan would achieve immense development and prosperity. He directed the formation of a committee chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to review actionable proposals presented by lawmakers and submit a report. Other committee members include Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Amir Muqam and Advisor to PM on Political and Public Affairs Rana Sanaullah.
