United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has praised Pakistan’s US-Iran mediation efforts, describing Islamabad’s role in facilitating dialogue between Washington and Tehran as pivotal. During his visit to Islamabad, Guterres urged the parties to end the conflict and return to diplomacy.
Speaking alongside Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Tuesday, Guterres said Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement had helped create conditions for talks between the United States and Iran. He said Islamabad’s approach had contributed to efforts focused on international peace and security.
The UN chief credited Pakistan’s efforts with helping facilitate the Islamabad memorandum of understanding, a subsequent ceasefire and a framework for future negotiations. He said Pakistanis should take pride in the country’s role in promoting dialogue between the two sides.
Guterres also called on all parties to end hostilities and resume diplomatic engagement. He urged respect for international law and said navigational rights should be restored. He further linked lasting regional peace to recognition of the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination.
Earlier, Ishaq Dar met Guterres to discuss regional and global issues affecting peace and security. According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the discussions covered Palestine, Jammu and Kashmir, Afghanistan, counter-terrorism and the future of multilateralism.
Dar briefed the UN chief on Pakistan’s positions regarding Jammu and Kashmir and the Indus Waters Treaty. He also highlighted Islamabad’s diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue and de-escalation, including its facilitation of talks between the United States and Iran. Guterres appreciated Pakistan’s contribution to the UN and its efforts to support mediation.
Guterres arrived in Islamabad early Tuesday for a two-day official visit from October 6 to 8. His schedule includes meetings with President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Ishaq Dar and Field Marshal Asim Munir. The visit comes as his 10-year tenure as UN secretary general approaches its end on December 31.
