World Leaders Engage Pakistan Ahead of Iran-US Talks
ISLAMABAD — Pakistan is at the center of global diplomatic attention as world leaders step up engagement ahead of planned Iran-US talks in Islamabad this weekend. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received multiple calls on Thursday from international figures aiming to sustain a recently declared two-week ceasefire and push for a broader settlement.
Global Outreach Intensifies
European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, contacted Sharif to acknowledge Pakistan’s role in facilitating the ceasefire. Gulf leaders, including Qatar’s Amir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, also praised Islamabad’s mediation efforts.
“The international community recognizes Pakistan’s key role in advancing peace and creating space for negotiations between Washington and Tehran,” said a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.
Focus on Ceasefire and Stability
In discussions with European leaders, Sharif and his counterparts emphasized the need to uphold the ceasefire and ensure negotiations yield meaningful outcomes. They also voiced concern over ongoing violence in Lebanon, which could undermine broader peace efforts.
Gulf leaders and Pakistan highlighted regional stability and mutual support. Sharif commended Qatar and Bahrain for showing restraint amid weeks of attacks and reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with the Gulf countries.
Coordinated Diplomatic Efforts
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar spoke with Saudi Prince Faisal bin Farhan, expressing gratitude for Saudi support and agreeing on continued diplomatic engagement to secure lasting peace.
Similarly, Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan encouraged the parties to approach the Islamabad talks with “conciliatory, flexible, patient, and constructive” measures to achieve a durable resolution.
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