Prime Minister Mohammed Shebaz Sharif had a telephone conversation tonight with his Islamic Republic President Masuud Pezeshkian.
In their warm and heartfelt conversation, the Prime Minister gave a warm tribute to Supreme Leader Ayatura Khamenei and thanked President Pezeshkian for Iran’s sincere and brothers’ diplomatic efforts to ease tensions in South Asia. He particularly thanked the president for calling the prime minister last month and for sending Foreign Minister Abbas Araguchi to the region during the crisis.
The Prime Minister said that while he strongly condemned India’s unguided attacks on Pakistan that led to innocent civilian martialism, including women and children, Pakistan’s brave army had taken responsibility for the enemy, given a fitting and powerful reply. He said that Pakistan has always wanted peace and, in this spirit, agrees with the understanding of a ceasefire with India and continues to commit to maintaining it. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s firm resolve and confirmed his defense of its sovereignty and territorial integrity at every cost.
However, the Prime Minister has expressed his concern about his attempts to unilaterally retain the Indus Water Treaty in India’s Avenance. He determined that these waters constituted the red line of Pakistan, as they cost 240 million people.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the Jammu and Kashmir conflict is the root cause of South Asia’s instability. He sought that fair resolution as the key to the region’s lasting peace, following the resolution of the UN Security Council and the aspirations of the people of Kashmir.
The Iranian president expressed his sincere appreciation for the loss of civilian lives. He welcomed the understanding of the ceasefire, while appreciating Pakistan’s efforts for peace. He said Iran is committed to promoting peace and stability in the region. The two leaders also exchanged opinions on bilateral relations between Pakistan and Iran. They agreed to strengthen cooperation in all areas of shared interest, particularly trade, connectivity, security and people-to-people contact. The Iranian president expanded his invitation to become prime minister to take on an official visit to Tehran.
MNA/