Islamabad MoU boosts faith in diplomacy: FO spokesperson 

Pakistan has welcomed recent diplomatic progress between Iran and the United States and described the latest developments as a major success for dialogue and peaceful engagement

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has welcomed recent diplomatic progress between Iran and the United States and described the latest developments as a major success for dialogue and peaceful engagement.

Speaking during the weekly briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and the follow-up negotiations held in Switzerland had strengthened confidence in diplomacy as the best path to resolving disputes.

He said the agreement reached in Islamabad had created an opportunity for long-term stability and opened the door for further negotiations between Tehran and Washington.

According to the Foreign Office, the two sides later held detailed discussions in Switzerland under the framework established by the Islamabad agreement.

Pakistan and Qatar jointly facilitated the negotiations and continued to support efforts aimed at reducing regional tensions.

Andrabi said the meetings helped both sides make progress on several important aspects related to the implementation of the understanding.

He added that a roadmap had been agreed upon to help both parties work towards a comprehensive agreement within the next 60 days.

The spokesperson said a high-level committee had been established to supervise the diplomatic process and provide political guidance to negotiators.

Chief negotiators from both countries will regularly report to the committee regarding progress in the talks.

Several working groups have also been formed to address sensitive issues including nuclear matters, sanctions, monitoring mechanisms and dispute resolution.

According to officials, a direct communication mechanism has also been established to prevent misunderstandings and avoid unintended escalation.

Special emphasis has been placed on ensuring the safe movement of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

A coordination mechanism involving regional stakeholders has also been introduced to support stability in Lebanon and neighbouring areas.

Pakistan welcomed the international appreciation it received for facilitating dialogue and promoting de-escalation efforts in the region.

The Foreign Office said recognition from various countries reflected international confidence in Pakistan’s diplomatic role and peace efforts.

Andrabi also praised the Pakistani media for maintaining professionalism and avoiding unnecessary speculation during the sensitive negotiations.

He said responsible reporting had helped create an atmosphere conducive to trust-building and constructive dialogue.

The spokesperson also highlighted the recent visit of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Pakistan.

During the visit, the Iranian president held separate meetings with President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir.

The leaders discussed bilateral relations and explored opportunities for expanding cooperation in trade, economy, energy and regional connectivity.

Regional and international developments also came under discussion during the high-level meetings.

The Foreign Office further highlighted diplomatic engagements undertaken by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar with counterparts from several countries.

The discussions focused on regional security, peace initiatives and international cooperation.

Addressing the issue of Pakistani crew members held by Somali pirates, Andrabi said the government was actively pursuing diplomatic and humanitarian channels to secure their release.

He said Pakistan remained in close contact with Somali authorities and other stakeholders involved in the matter.

The government is also seeking support from friendly countries, international organisations and humanitarian groups to facilitate the safe return of the hostages.

The spokesperson acknowledged the pain and concerns of the families and assured them that every possible effort was being made for the release of the crew members.

On the Palestinian issue, Pakistan reiterated its support for the Palestinian people and condemned violence against civilians and attacks on religious sites in the occupied territories.

The Foreign Office also highlighted Pakistan’s recent diplomatic achievement at the United Nations following the adoption of a Security Council resolution aimed at improving accountability for attacks against UN peacekeepers.

Officials said the resolution reflected Pakistan’s continued commitment to international peacekeeping operations and global security efforts.

The developments underline Pakistan’s growing diplomatic engagement in regional and international affairs as Islamabad continues to promote dialogue, mediation and peaceful conflict resolution.