Islamabad: Iran and the United States have expressed their confidence in Pakistan's ability to facilitate talks aimed at ending the ongoing war in the region, as stated by the Foreign Office. This announcement was made by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tahir Andrabi, during his weekly media briefing in Islamabad.
According to Radio Pakistan, Tahir Andrabi highlighted Pakistan's willingness and honor to host and facilitate meaningful discussions between the two nations, seeking a comprehensive and lasting resolution to the conflict. Andrabi emphasized Pakistan's crucial relationship with the United States, underscoring their active engagement with US leadership to de-escalate the situation and promote a peaceful settlement.
Tahir Andrabi also condemned recent attacks on Gulf countries by Iran and retaliatory actions against Iran, reiterating Pakistan's commitment to the principles of the UN Charter in promoting regional peace and stability. He emphasized the importance of a peaceful resolution to the conflict and Pakistan's ongoing efforts to mediate.
In response to inquiries about the recent visit of Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar to China, Andrabi noted the five points announced concerning ending hostilities, regional de-escalation, and initiating dialogue. These efforts have been appreciated regionally and internationally, including by the United States, as steps towards ending the war and fostering a sustainable peace process.
Despite potential challenges, Andrabi assured that Pakistan remains committed to facilitating dialogue and advocating for peace. He revealed that a Pakistani delegation is currently in Urumqi, China, engaging in talks with Afghan officials, demonstrating Pakistan's consistent willingness to negotiate and collaborate with China on Afghanistan.
Addressing a recent statement from India's Ministry of External Affairs concerning the Shia community in Pakistan, Andrabi firmly rejected the remarks as cynical and diversionary. He clarified that within Pakistan, Shias and Sunnis are seen as integral parts of the Muslim faith, dismissing any majority-minority paradigm. Andrabi warned that India's rhetoric risks inciting sectarian discord and terrorism within Pakistan, urging caution due to the diverse Muslim community within India itself.
Andrabi concluded by expressing concerns about India's ongoing persecution of its Muslim community, highlighting the dangers of fostering sectarianism, which could ultimately harm India as well.