Prime Minister Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people in their struggle for self-determination and statehood
Asghar Ali Mubarak
ISLAMABAD: Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi paid an official visit to Pakistan, where he was warmly welcomed by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. This visit marked Araghchi’s first official trip to Pakistan as Iran’s Foreign Minister. During the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif extended his heartfelt regards to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and President Massoud Pezeshkian, reinforcing Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding and brotherly ties with Iran.
The discussions during the meeting focused primarily on the evolving geopolitical situation in the Middle East, with particular attention to the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Prime Minister Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people in their struggle for self-determination and statehood. He strongly condemned Israel’s ongoing military actions against Palestinians, describing the situation as a “genocidal campaign.”
Emphasizing the urgency of the crisis, he called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the provision of unhindered humanitarian aid, and, most importantly, the recognition of the Palestinian people’s inalienable right to self-determination as outlined in United Nations resolutions and supported by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The Prime Minister also voiced Pakistan’s deep concern over Israel’s attack on Iran on October 26, 2024, and once again expressed Pakistan’s resolute support for Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The condemnation of Israel’s actions was an affirmation of Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability and its principled stance on the security of its neighboring states. In return, Foreign Minister Araghchi expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Sharif for Pakistan’s steadfast support of Iran’s positions in the region. He also briefed the Pakistani leadership on Iran’s perspective regarding the broader Middle Eastern conflicts and Iran’s response to the ongoing crises.
This meeting highlighted the strengthening of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Iran, particularly in the face of shared regional challenges. Both countries underscored the importance of maintaining high-level diplomatic exchanges and continuing to enhance cooperation in all areas of mutual interest, from political solidarity to economic and security collaboration. The discussions also emphasized the need for peaceful solutions to the complex and evolving issues in the Middle East, reflecting both nations’ commitment to regional peace, stability, and cooperation.
