Pakistan, Iran hail new peace initiative

June 24, 2026 (MLN): A new phase of regional diplomacy began on Tuesday as Pakistan and Iran expressed confidence that the technical-level talks between Iran and the United States under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding would pave the way for lasting peace, stability, and prosperity across the region.

Addressing a joint media interaction in Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the conclusion of the recent conflict as a positive development, noting that the situation had the potential to engulf not only the region but areas beyond it.

He emphasized that Pakistan and Iran share a relationship rooted in centuries of common history, faith, culture, and civilization, adding that the two countries are far more than neighbors, according to Radio Pakistan.

The Prime Minister said Pakistan remains thankful to the Iranian leadership for placing its trust in Islamabad to facilitate and support the peace process, stressing that the mediation efforts were carried out with complete sincerity and honesty.

Paying tribute to Iran’s leadership, he praised Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Ali Khamenei for guiding the Iranian people through a challenging period.

He also commended the unity, resilience, and determination displayed by the Iranian nation during the crisis.

Shehbaz Sharif further appreciated the constructive engagement of both the Iranian and US delegations during the negotiations held in Switzerland, saying the progress achieved reflected serious efforts from all sides.

He noted that the diplomatic breakthrough was also supported by several friendly countries and expressed gratitude to Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi for their sincere efforts in helping resolve the crisis.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the role of Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, describing his contribution to the mediation process as dedicated and steadfast. He similarly lauded Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar for his efforts in advancing the dialogue.

He said Pakistan and Iran have consistently stood by each other during difficult times, adding that recent developments once again highlighted the enduring strength of the relationship between the two countries.

Speaking on the occasion, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described Pakistan as a brotherly and friendly country with deep historical, cultural, and religious ties that have brought the two nations closer together.

He appreciated Pakistan’s responsible and visionary role in supporting discussions aimed at promoting regional stability during a critical period marked by multiple challenges.

He also called on friendly countries to develop a shared understanding and work toward establishing a new regional security framework.

The Iranian President said Iran’s acceptance of the dialogue initiative reflected the longstanding trust of the Iranian nation in the people and government of Pakistan. He added that Tehran values and appreciates the efforts undertaken by Pakistan in support of peace and dialogue.

Pezeshkian said his meetings with President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir focused on regional developments and bilateral relations.

He said the discussions demonstrated a favorable environment for deeper cooperation between the two countries and would help open a new chapter in bilateral ties while creating fresh opportunities for collaboration based on shared interests.

The Iranian President reiterated that peace, development, sustainable security, and the welfare of nations can be achieved through continuous dialogue, regional cooperation, and mutual respect.

He also thanked the Government of Pakistan for the hospitality extended to the Iranian delegation during the visit.

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