PM Shehbaz Sharif Reaffirms Pakistan-Iran Peace Partnership, Supports Islamabad MoU and Regional Stability

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Pakistan-Iran relations, promoting regional peace and expanding cooperation following high-level discussions in Islamabad.

During a delegation-level meeting and joint press conference, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the Iranian president and his delegation, expressing gratitude for accepting the invitation to visit Pakistan.

The prime minister conveyed his best wishes for Iran’s leadership and praised the Iranian people for their courage, determination and unity during challenging times.

Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan and Iran share historic relations based on brotherhood, culture and mutual respect. He stated that both countries are not only neighbors but are connected through thousands of years of civilization.

“Today we are gathered here for a brighter future,” the prime minister said, emphasizing Pakistan’s continued commitment to peace, stability and prosperity.

He thanked the Iranian leadership for showing confidence in Pakistan’s mediation efforts and said the Islamabad memorandum of understanding (MoU) and ceasefire arrangements were achieved through dignity, respect and collective efforts.

The prime minister appreciated the role of Pakistan’s diplomatic team, including Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, as well as security leadership for supporting the peace process.

He also praised Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for his efforts in supporting negotiations and peace initiatives.

Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the support of regional partners, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt, in encouraging diplomatic progress.

The prime minister emphasized that Pakistan and Iran will continue working together in economic, trade and other sectors to build a shared future.

Regarding Iran’s ballistic missile programme, Shehbaz Sharif clarified that the issue was not discussed during negotiations and was not included in the Islamabad MoU.

He stated that the agreement contains no reference to Iran’s missile programme and said the matter was never part of the agenda.

The prime minister warned that some elements may attempt to damage the peace process and stressed that there should be no double standards regarding defence capabilities.

He said, “Iran’s missile programme was never part of the negotiations,” adding that countries should avoid creating confusion about the agreement.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian praised Pakistan’s role in the peace process and said the relationship between the two countries is built on trust, friendship and mutual respect.

He described Pakistan and Iran as close partners with a shared future and appreciated Islamabad’s efforts in facilitating dialogue.

President Pezeshkian said the Islamabad MoU was possible because of mutual trust between both countries and thanked Pakistan’s government and people for their hospitality.

Both leaders agreed to continue cooperation for peace, development and regional stability while strengthening bilateral relations.