PM Shehbaz credits 'political-military partnership' for Pakistan's recognition as US-Iran mediator, changed image
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has termed Pakistan’s emergence as a key mediator between the US and Iran as a “shining moment in our history”, crediting the “political-military partnership” for the change in the country’s image internationally. The premier made these remarks during an interview with The Sunday Times, as Islamabad remained engaged in efforts for de-escalation between the US and Iran. “It’s one of the shining moments in our history. Pakistan is acknowledged worldwide as an honest mediator and as a country in which international leadership has full trust and faith. It’s our shining hour, and I feel a very proud Pakistani — as do 240 million Pakistanis,” he was quoted as saying in the interview published on Saturday night. The PM’s expressed optimism even as military pressure and fears of renewed confrontation continue to shape the conflict that began with US-Israeli strikes on Iran in late February. While a deal for a complete end to the war is yet to happen, hostilities have largely ceased since the two sides agreed on a Pakistan-brokered ceasefire on April 8. Following the ceasefire, a first round of historic direct US-Iran talks was held in Islamabad on April 11 and 12, with Pakistan playing the role of a mediator. The talks had ended without an agreement, but also without a breakdown . With challenges in convening a second round, Islamabad continues its peace efforts. The latest development on this front is Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s visit to Iran, where he has held meetings with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Parliament Speaker Bagher Ghalibaf. Diplomatic sources said the visit was linked to Pakistan’s continuing efforts to revive the stalled Iran-US peace process after President Donald Trump rejected Tehran’s latest response to American proposals. In his interview with The Sunday Times, PM Shehbaz said he was “hopeful” of a second round of direct talks between the US and Iran, leading to lasting pea...
Original source: Dawn Pakistan