2025-05-26T21:22:09Z

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On Monday, Pakistan's Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, embarked on a significant diplomatic mission to Iran, where he engaged in critical discussions with the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei, in the bustling capital of Tehran. This high-level meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between the two neighboring nations as they navigated the complexities of regional stability and the pressing challenges faced by the Muslim world.

During the meeting, PM Sharif expressed that receiving an audience with Ayatollah Khamenei was “an honour.” He emphasized the pivotal role Iran plays in the region, particularly highlighting the consistent support Iran has extended to Pakistan during times of turbulence in South Asia. “I sought his views especially with regards to the current challenges faced by the Muslim Ummah. We also exchanged views on bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest,” Sharif articulated after the meeting, showcasing the depth of their discussions.

Sharif was particularly grateful for Iran’s efforts as a peace broker amid rising tensions between South Asian nations. “I thanked him for Iran’s role as a mediator and for expression of its concern for Pakistan during the recent crisis in South Asia,” he added, indicating Pakistan's acknowledgment of Iran's diplomatic initiatives.

Furthermore, Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to fostering strong ties with Iran, stating, “Pakistan values Iran’s role in the Muslim Ummah and looks forward to advancing mutual goals of peace, development, and harmony.” This statement not only highlights the diplomatic intentions of both nations but also reflects a shared vision for a more stable region.

The context of this diplomatic visit was bolstered by the presence of a high-profile delegation accompanying PM Sharif. His entourage included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, Interior Minister Mohsin Raza Naqvi, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi. This prominent delegation signifies the importance of the discussions held in Tehran.

Prior to his meeting with Khamenei, Sharif arrived in Tehran after a flight from Turkey, where he was warmly welcomed by President Masoud Pezeshkian at the historic Saadabad Palace. A ceremonial guard of honour was presented to Sharif, illustrating the respect and significance of his visit. In a joint press conference with President Pezeshkian, Sharif reiterated his readiness to engage in dialogue with India, emphasizing the need for peace and resolution of disputes such as the contentious Kashmir issue and trade relations.

“We want to resolve all disputes, including the Kashmir issue and the water issue, through negotiations and are also ready to talk to our neighbour on trade and counter-terrorism,” Sharif stated. This assertion indicates a desire for peaceful conflict resolution, a stance that is particularly relevant given the recent escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan.

Sharif did not shy away from addressing the potential consequences of continued aggression from India. “But if they choose to remain aggressors, then we shall defend our territory like we have done a few days ago,” he warned. This statement alludes to the heightened military tensions following recent conflicts, where Sharif claimed that Pakistan emerged “victorious” after a four-day confrontation with India.

For context, relations between India and Pakistan have been fraught with tension, particularly following the tragic Pahalgam attack on April 22, which resulted in the loss of 26 lives. In response, India executed precision strikes targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on May 7 under Operation Sindoor. This was met with retaliatory attempts from Pakistan to target Indian military bases over the following days, escalating the conflict before both nations agreed to cease military operations after negotiations between their respective military leaders on May 10.

The discussions in Tehran represent a critical step in the ongoing dialogue between Pakistan and Iran, with both nations aiming to strengthen their cooperation in the face of regional challenges.