Says ready to engage in dialogue with India for resolution of all disputes; PM holds talks, addresses joint presser with President Pezeshkian
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday expressed his gratitude to Iran for its support during the recent escalation of tensions between Pakistan and India, affirming Pakistan’s backing of Iran’s peaceful nuclear programme.
“We stand with our Iranian brothers and reaffirm our support for Iran’s peaceful nuclear programme,” the PM said.
During a joint press conference in Tehran with Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, PM Shehbaz described Iran as his “second home” and said he was delighted to visit the country.
He highlighted the long-standing cultural and historical ties between Pakistan and Iran, adding that both nations had decided to deepen their relationship further through enhanced cooperation in various fields.
“Pakistan and Iran share deep-rooted, cultural, and historical ties. We have made the decision to strengthen these relations even further through cooperation in diverse sectors,” PM stated.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged constructive talks with the Iranian President, during which President Pezeshkian expressed concerns about the ongoing tensions in South Asia. He added that Iranian diplomats had remained in close contact with Pakistan, showing their concern for the country’s security.
Shehbaz Sharif stressed that Pakistan had exercised restraint and, with the full support of the nation, had given a strong response when necessary.
He clarified, “Pakistan seeks peace and desires to resolve issues through dialogue. We are committed to a resolution of the Kashmir issue in accordance with United Nations resolutions.”
He further emphasised Pakistan’s commitment to serious dialogue with India on key issues, including peace, water rights, trade, and counterterrorism. However, he warned, “If India resorts to aggression again, we will defend our country with full strength.”
“We are ready to talk, for the sake of peace on water issues with our neighbour,” he continued. “We are ready to talk to promote trade and also, counter-terrorism if they’re serious.
“But if they choose to remain aggressors, then we shall defend our territory … like we have done a few days ago,” he added. “But if they accept my offer of peace, then we will show that we really want peace, seriously and sincerely.”
“There was total agreement that our two brotherly and neighbourly countries must enhance our cooperation in the field of trade, investments, commerce, in fact, every walk of life,” he said.
“My dear brother, I dearly appreciate your sense of concern and brotherly feelings for the people of Pakistan and your ardent desire that this crisis comes to a grinding halt before it, God forbid, escalates,” Shehbaz said, addressing the Iranian president.
“Pakistan came out of this conflict victorious … through our brave actions by our outstanding armed forces,” Shehbaz said.
On the ongoing Gaza conflict, the Prime Minister expressed Pakistan’s solidarity with the Palestinian people, condemning the Israeli aggression that has resulted in the deaths of 54,000 Palestinians. “The international community must now act and ensure a ceasefire in Gaza,” he urged.
In his remarks, Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian welcomed the ceasefire between Pakistan and India, urging both nations to resolve their differences through dialogue. “The relations between Pakistan and Iran are deep and historic,” he said. “We call on both countries to engage in dialogue and find solutions to their disputes.”
President Pezeshkian also condemned the violence in Gaza, stating, “Iran and Pakistan, as members of the OIC, collectively condemn the atrocities in Gaza.”
He further criticised the silence of Western countries in the face of the Gaza crisis, calling their stance “highly reprehensible.” He concluded by thanking PM Shehbaz and the Pakistani delegation for their visit.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Iran is part of a six-day diplomatic tour spanning four countries—Turkey, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan. The tour aims to express gratitude and strengthen regional partnerships in the wake of recent tensions with India.
Upon his arrival at Mehrabad Airport, the Prime Minister and his delegation were warmly welcomed by Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan Reza Amiri Moghaddam, Pakistani Ambassador to Iran Mudassar Tipu, and senior diplomatic officials.
A smartly turned out contingent of the Iranian army presented a formal salute to the Prime Minister.
