UK hails Pakistan’s mediation role in US-Iran tensions: Dar

British officials have praised Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to mediate between the United States and Iran, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign

LONDON: British officials have praised Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to mediate between the United States and Iran, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said on Friday.

Dar, who concluded his five-day visit to the United Kingdom, said British officials also appreciated the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir during what he described as challenging regional circumstances.

Speaking to journalists in London, Dar termed his UK visit highly productive and said he held detailed discussions with British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband on bilateral relations, regional developments and counter-terrorism cooperation.

According to Dar, Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue between Washington and Tehran was positively viewed during his meetings with British officials. He said Islamabad remained committed to diplomatic engagement and efforts aimed at reducing tensions in the region.

During the visit, Dar also met Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey. Their discussions included Commonwealth reforms and youth-related initiatives, with Pakistan currently co-chairing the Commonwealth Youth Programme.

Climate change was another issue raised by Dar during his engagements. He highlighted Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate-related disasters and stressed the need for greater international attention and cooperation.

Dar also discussed the situation of 10 Pakistani nationals being held hostage aboard the MT Honour 25 by Somali pirates. He said Pakistani authorities were pursuing diplomatic efforts for their safe release while observing international maritime principles.

He explained that ransom payments were restricted under global maritime practices because they could encourage further piracy and hostage-taking.

The foreign minister also met British National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell during his London visit. He said the meeting was held privately for security reasons.

On Pakistan’s economy, Dar said the country had moved beyond concerns about a possible default. He claimed that economic indicators had improved considerably, with inflation falling from around 30 per cent to single-digit levels and interest rates nearly halving.

He said the government’s focus was now shifting from achieving macroeconomic stability to promoting economic growth, development and higher per capita income.

Dar also held telephone conversations with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. The discussions covered regional developments and preparations for the upcoming meeting of the R4 grouping comprising Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Egypt.

The four countries are expected to meet in Istanbul later this month to discuss the evolving security situation in the Middle East and strengthen regional diplomatic coordination.

The meeting will be particularly significant following the signing of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye earlier this month.