Islamabad: Pakistan has said it wants a peaceful and stable Iran and will continue to play its role for peace and stability in the region, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said on Thursday.
Speaking at the weekly press briefing, the spokesperson said Pakistan is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Iran and believes that Iran’s challenges should be resolved through peaceful means.
“A peaceful and stable Iran is in the interest of the entire region. We hope Iran will overcome its current challenges soon,” he said.
The Foreign Office spokesperson said that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephonic conversation with his Iranian counterpart, during which the situation in Iran, the Middle East and the wider regional environment was discussed in detail.
He acknowledged that people in Iran have faced difficulties during recent protests, reiterating that Pakistan remains committed to promoting peace and stability across the region.
Strong Rejection of Indian Army Chief’s Remarks
Responding to a question, the spokesperson strongly rejected recent remarks by the Indian Army Chief, stating that human rights violations in Indian-occupied Kashmir continue unabated.
He added that the oppression of minorities and the spread of hate-driven narratives in India are well documented and visible to the international community.
The spokesperson said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with the Amir of Qatar, during which both leaders discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation and expressed satisfaction over the improving relations. They also agreed to remain in contact in the future.
He further informed that President Asif Ali Zardari is currently on an official visit to Bahrain, where he has held meetings with senior Bahraini officials. Discussions during the visit focus on bilateral ties and regional matters.
The Foreign Office said that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar attended the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Jeddah, where he presented Pakistan’s stance and reaffirmed the country’s principled position on Somaliland.
During the meeting, the foreign minister also strongly condemned Israel’s political aggression, stressing that any violation of Somalia’s sovereignty is unacceptable.
The spokesperson said Pakistan is in contact with the United States regarding immigration policy, adding that the US authorities are currently reviewing their visa policies.