Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has stated that the use of water as a weapon is unacceptable and affirmed Pakistan’s commitment to defending its water rights at all costs. During a telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, the Prime Minister expressed Pakistan’s firm stance on various regional issues.
According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister condemned terrorism in all its forms and clarified that Pakistan has no direct or indirect connection with the Pahalgam attack. Highlighting the nation’s long-standing battle against terrorism, he emphasized that Pakistan has suffered immensely over the past two decades, losing thousands of lives and incurring financial losses worth billions of dollars. He also conveyed Pakistan’s readiness for a neutral investigation into the Pahalgam incident to establish the truth.
The Prime Minister discussed Pakistan’s position on India’s provocative actions following the Pahalgam incident, reiterating Pakistan’s desire for peace in the region. He welcomed any role Iran might wish to play in fostering regional peace. On the issue of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the Prime Minister assured that Pakistan will continue to support the Kashmiri people in their struggle for self-determination as recognized by various UN resolutions.
In addition, the Prime Minister extended condolences to the Iranian President over the tragic explosion at Shahid Rajaee port in Bandar Abbas. He expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and wished for the swift recovery of the injured. The Prime Minister affirmed that Pakistan stands with the brotherly people of Iran in this difficult time and is prepared to offer any needed assistance.
President Pezeshkian thanked the Prime Minister for his solidarity regarding the Bandar Abbas tragedy and lauded Pakistan’s efforts to promote peace in the region. He extended an invitation to Prime Minister Sharif to visit Tehran, with the latter reciprocating by inviting President Pezeshkian to visit Pakistan.