Islamabad (TDI): United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has praised Pakistan’s “pivotal role” in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran, urging all parties to end the conflict, return to diplomacy and restore navigational rights in accordance with international law.
Addressing a joint press conference with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Islamabad on Tuesday, Guterres said Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement had helped create conditions for dialogue between Washington and Tehran and contributed to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, the subsequent ceasefire and a framework for future negotiations.
“Every Pakistani should be proud of that pivotal role,” Guterres said, praising Pakistan’s efforts to promote engagement and mediation in the conflict.
From Islamabad, the UN chief called on all sides to end hostilities and resume diplomatic engagement, stressing that there could be no lasting peace in the region without recognition of the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination.
Guterres’ comments came as Pakistan continues to facilitate diplomatic contacts between the United States and Iran. Islamabad has repeatedly maintained that dialogue and diplomacy are the most effective means of resolving the conflict and preventing further regional escalation. Pakistan’s Foreign Office has also said it remains engaged with the parties to help sustain de-escalation and return to the framework established by the Islamabad MoU.
Read More: Dar, Guterres Discuss Regional, Global Peace and Security Issues
Earlier, Dar held talks with Guterres on regional and global peace and security issues, according to the Foreign Office. The discussions covered Palestine, Jammu and Kashmir, Afghanistan, counter-terrorism and the future of multilateralism.
Dar briefed the UN secretary-general on Pakistan’s positions regarding Jammu and Kashmir and the Indus Waters Treaty, reiterating Islamabad’s call for a just and peaceful settlement of the Kashmir dispute in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
The foreign minister also highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue and de-escalation, including its facilitation of the US-Iran talks in Islamabad.
Read More: Guterres Arrives in Pakistan for Talks on Regional, Global Issues
Guterres appreciated Pakistan’s longstanding contribution to the United Nations and its efforts to advance dialogue, mediation and de-escalation.
Pakistan has previously said that the Islamabad MoU of June 17 established a framework for de-escalation, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. Islamabad has continued to advocate a return to that framework as the basis for further negotiations.
