Tehran, May 26, 2025 — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has signaled Pakistan’s readiness to engage in dialogue with India to resolve longstanding disputes, including the Kashmir conflict and water-sharing issues. Speaking alongside Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran on Monday, Shehbaz stressed the importance of peace through negotiations.
During a joint press conference at Saadabad Palace, the two leaders hailed their “productive and meaningful” discussions covering trade, investment, and regional cooperation. Shehbaz thanked Iran for its support during Pakistan’s recent military tensions with India, emphasizing that the two countries share historic and cultural bonds that can evolve into deeper cooperation.
“Pakistan came out of this conflict victorious because of our courageous armed forces,” Shehbaz said, but reiterated that Islamabad remains committed to regional peace. “We are ready to sit at the table to resolve the Kashmir issue in line with UN Security Council resolutions and even the commitments made by India’s own parliament,” he noted.
He extended offers for dialogue not only on territorial issues but also on water security, trade, and counter-terrorism. However, Shehbaz warned, “If they choose aggression, Pakistan will defend its territory as it has done before.”
Later, Shehbaz met with Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, briefing him on the conflict with India and expressing gratitude for Tehran’s diplomatic support. Khamenei reportedly praised Shehbaz’s commitment to fostering regional peace and strengthening Pakistan-Iran ties.
