In a significant diplomatic move, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended an olive branch to India during his official visit to Iran, expressing Pakistan’s willingness to hold peace talks on longstanding issues including Kashmir and water security.
During a joint press conference with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian at the historic Saadabad Palace, PM Shehbaz emphasized the importance of dialogue and regional cooperation.
“We wanted peace, we want peace, and we will work for peace in the region through talks on the table,” he stated, reiterating Pakistan’s long-standing stance on the resolution of the Kashmir dispute in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions.
The two leaders reaffirmed their countries’ commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation in trade, commerce, energy, and regional stability. PM Shehbaz thanked President Pezeshkian and the Iranian leadership for their support during the recent military tensions with India, calling it a sign of deep-rooted brotherhood.
He also praised Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s diplomatic outreach and termed his discussions “heart to heart.”
“Pakistan came out of this conflict victorious due to the courage of our armed forces. But our goal remains peace,” PM Shehbaz stressed. “If India is serious, we are ready for peace talks – not just on Kashmir, but also trade, counter-terrorism, and water issues.”
Later in the day, PM Shehbaz met Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and briefed him on the situation. Khamenei appreciated Pakistan’s role in promoting regional peace and praised PM Shehbaz’s vision for stronger bilateral ties.
PM Shehbaz’s visit to Iran is part of a broader four-nation tour aimed at expressing gratitude to friendly nations, including Turkiye, for their diplomatic and moral support during the conflict with India.
