Islamabad: Pakistan and Iran have agreed to enhance cooperation in all areas of shared interest, particularly focusing on trade, connectivity, security, and people-to-people contacts. This consensus was reached during a telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

According to Radio Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed gratitude to President Pezeshkian for Iran’s diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions in South Asia. He condemned India’s attacks against Pakistan, which resulted in the deaths of innocent civilians, including women and children. Sharif emphasized that the Pakistan Armed Forces had responded to these provocations in a responsible and decisive manner.

The Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan’s desire for peace, highlighting the country’s commitment to the ceasefire agreement with India. He further affirmed Pakistan’s determination to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. However, Sharif expressed concern over India’s attempt to unilaterally suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, which he described as a critical issue for Pakistan, affecting the lives of 240 million people.

Discussing the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, Sharif pointed out that it remains a primary cause of instability in the region. He called for a resolution in line with the UN Security Council’s resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people, asserting that this is essential for lasting peace in South Asia.

President Pezeshkian conveyed his condolences for the loss of civilian lives and praised Pakistan’s peace efforts. He also welcomed the ceasefire agreement and invited Prime Minister Sharif to Tehran for an official visit, which was accepted by the Prime Minister.