Pakistan–Iran MoU marks “new era of peace”: PM Shehbaz

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that, speaking without hesitation, he can clearly state that the issue of ballistic

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that, speaking without hesitation, he can clearly state that the issue of ballistic missiles was not on the negotiating table. While addressing a joint press conference with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to close ties with Iran through a Persian poem. The Iranian President and other officials applauded the Prime Minister’s recitation.

The Prime Minister said that he once again welcomes the Iranian President and his delegation to Pakistan and prays for their future success.

He said that the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding is a major achievement. Pakistan signed this MoU as a mediator. He added that the ceasefire following the signing of the Islamabad MoU is a moment of happiness for them, and they pray that this step leads to a new era of peace.

He also expressed sorrow over the martyrdom of thousands of people in Iran, saying that they are grateful to be sitting together today for a brighter future.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed good wishes for Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, saying they pay tribute to his leadership during this difficult time.

He further said that Pakistan assures it will continue playing this important role and will remain engaged until a lasting agreement is reached. He praised the resilience and courage of the Iranian people during this difficult time.

He stated that the Field Marshal worked tirelessly in the ceasefire and MoU process, adding that Allah has been very kind in granting this success. He said Pakistan had promised to do everything possible to stop the war.

He added that the Amir of Qatar and his Prime Minister fully supported this peace initiative. The Saudi Crown Prince and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan also supported Pakistan’s peace efforts.

The Prime Minister said Pakistan will promote cooperation with Iran in all sectors, and that Iran will soon become a major economy. He said the Iranian President’s visit on his invitation is a matter of joy and that Pakistan and Iran are forever friends and brothers.

He added that there should be no double standards in the world and that certain elements did not want this MoU to succeed. He thanked Iran for trusting Pakistan’s mediation efforts.

He further said that Iran’s success is Pakistan’s success and Iran’s failure is Pakistan’s failure. Pakistan will remain grateful for Iran’s trust in the peace talks.

He said the peace negotiations were conducted with complete sincerity and that such success would not have been possible without the support of friendly countries. The Amir of Qatar played a central role in ensuring the success of the peace process.

He also credited Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir’s unwavering commitment and tireless efforts for achieving this historic success.

He said that during the meeting that evening, Pakistan and Iran held highly productive discussions and that both countries have always stood by each other. He expressed solidarity with the people of Iran.

He ended by raising the slogan: “Long live Pakistan-Iran friendship.”

During the question-and-answer session, the Prime Minister reiterated that the issue of ballistic missiles was not part of the negotiations.

He said that if Iran keeps ballistic missiles for its defense, many countries also possess such weapons. He questioned why Iran’s missile program is being singled out.

He stated again that ballistic missiles were never part of the negotiation agenda.

The Prime Minister said both he and the Iranian President are firmly committed to standing like an iron wall against those trying to sabotage the agreement.

He added that certain elements are trying to undermine peace efforts, but they will resist such conspiracies firmly.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s Remarks

Later, Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian began his press conference with a poem by Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the Poet of the East.

He said that Pakistan and Iran share uniquely close relations and that both nations share the same destination.

He said Pakistan and Iran are “two bodies, one soul,” and that relations between Tehran and Islamabad will grow stronger. Pakistan is not just a neighbor but also a brother and dear friend.

He said both countries are partners in a shared future and destiny, and that the Iranian government and people are grateful for Pakistan’s support.

He expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended to the Iranian delegation and said he is leading the delegation on the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

He acknowledged Pakistan’s important role in development and prosperity.

He said the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding was possible due to Pakistan’s trust, and praised Pakistan’s role in the negotiation process.

Responding to a question, the Iranian President said Iran will not compromise on its missile program.

Meeting Between the Two Leaders

Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and said that he once again warmly welcomes his brother Masoud Pezeshkian on his visit to Pakistan.