Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif engaged in a series of important telephone conversations on Friday with prominent leaders from Azerbaijan, Malaysia, and Uzbekistan, emphasizing the urgent need for de-escalation and diplomatic engagement to address the escalating tensions in the Middle East. These discussions came at a critical juncture as regional conflicts continue to threaten stability, and the prime minister used the opportunity to exchange warm Eid ul Fitr greetings, reinforcing bonds of friendship and cooperation with these nations.
In his dialogue with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, PM Shehbaz extended heartfelt Eid wishes to the people and leadership of Azerbaijan, which were warmly reciprocated. The two leaders took a moment to reflect on the importance of unity within the Muslim Ummah, expressing deep concern over the ongoing hostilities affecting Iran and the wider Gulf region. The Prime Minister’s Office highlighted that Shehbaz Sharif condemned recent attacks targeting Azerbaijan, reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering solidarity with the Azerbaijani people during these challenging times. Both sides agreed on the necessity of immediate steps to reduce tensions and underscored the pivotal role of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving outstanding disputes peacefully.
Meanwhile, the conversation with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also revolved around the pressing need for peace and harmony across the Muslim world. The two leaders exchanged Eid greetings and concurred on the urgency of calming the volatile situation in the Middle East. They reaffirmed their mutual commitment to supporting diplomatic initiatives aimed at restoring regional stability. Additionally, both leaders expressed satisfaction with the strengthening trajectory of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Malaysia, pledging to enhance cooperation in various sectors to further solidify their partnership.
Turning to Central Asia, PM Shehbaz’s call with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev included a warm exchange of Eid wishes and a thorough discussion on regional tensions. Both leaders stressed the importance of exercising restraint and reiterated that sustained dialogue and diplomatic efforts are essential to resolving conflicts peacefully. They also reviewed the progress of bilateral ties, expressing contentment with the outcomes of President Mirziyoyev’s recent visit to Pakistan. The conversation highlighted the significance of timely follow-up on key agreements reached during that visit to ensure continued momentum in their cooperative endeavors.
In addition to these conversations, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, exchanging Eid ul Fitr greetings and reaffirming the strong and brotherly relations between Pakistan and Egypt. The prime minister emphasized Pakistan’s dedication to deepening collaboration across all areas of mutual interest. He also praised Egypt’s constructive diplomatic role on the global stage, particularly its efforts to foster peace in the Middle East. Both leaders expressed serious concern over the ongoing hostilities in Iran and the Gulf and agreed on the importance of continuing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and restore peace and stability in the region.
It is worth noting that these discussions follow PM Shehbaz’s recent talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Jordanian King Abdullah II, where the focus similarly centered on the volatile situation in the Middle East and the critical need for restraint and dialogue. Collectively, these engagements underscore Pakistan’s proactive diplomatic approach and its commitment to promoting peace and stability in a region facing complex challenges.
