Pakistan can play a role in Middle East peace

During a recent phone call between PM Shehbaz and Secretary Rubio, the Pakistani leader firmly stated that “talks on Kashmir, water, and terrorism are unavoidable”. A joint statement issued after the conversation confirmed the discussion and highlighted key points raised by the Prime Minister.

Shehbaz Sharif praised the leadership of former U.S. President Donald Trump, calling it bold and courageous. He also appreciated the “U.S. diplomatic role in maintaining the ceasefire between Pakistan and India”, and emphasized the need for dialogue between the two South Asian nations to ensure lasting peace in the region.

The Prime Minister stressed that “negotiations on Jammu & Kashmir, water disputes, trade, and terrorism must take place”. He further added that the “Iran-Israel conflict can only be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy”, and reiterated Pakistan’s readiness to contribute toward peace efforts in the Middle East.

PM Shehbaz also underscored the importance of “strengthening Pakistan-U.S. cooperation” in various sectors, including trade, energy, minerals, and information technology.

Discussing internal security, the Prime Minister said “Pakistan remains fully committed to eliminating terrorism”. He confirmed that operations against terrorist groups such as the “Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)”, and others are ongoing.

According to the statement, Secretary Marco Rubio “praised Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts” and welcomed its role in promoting regional peace. Prime Minister Shehbaz also called the recent meeting between “President Trump and Field Marshal Asim Munir” “positive and productive.”