Field Marshal Asim Munir, Iranian FM Araghchi discuss regional situation

ISLAMABAD: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held a telephone conversation with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir during his visit to Beijing, according to Iranian government and media reports.

The two officials discussed the latest regional developments and matters of mutual interest between Iran and Pakistan, according to the Iranian government.

The phone call took place during Araghchi’s one-day visit to China, where he met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to discuss bilateral relations and the rapidly changing situation in West Asia.

During the meeting, Wang urged Iran and the United States to exercise restraint, return to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and rebuild a negotiating framework based on previous understandings. China said continued confrontation between Washington and Tehran was not in the interests of either side or the international community.

Wang Yi also called for substantive consultations on outstanding issues and said China was prepared to play a constructive role in efforts to reduce regional tensions.

Beijing further urged the parties to take steps to restore the safety and flow of international shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, citing the importance of stable global energy transportation and supply chains.

During his China visit, Araghchi said Tehran had initiated dialogue with neighbouring countries as part of efforts to restore regional calm and strengthen peaceful relations.

Iranian officials have also stressed that Tehran remains ready to defend its sovereignty while pursuing diplomatic avenues to address the regional crisis.

The call between Araghchi and Field Marshal Asim Munir comes amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing diplomatic efforts involving Iran, Pakistan, China and other regional states.

Pakistan has continued to advocate dialogue and diplomatic engagement in addressing the wider regional crisis, while China has called for the restoration of negotiations based on the Islamabad framework.