ISLAMABAD: Pakistan remains in close contact with the United States leadership and is actively engaged in continuous diplomatic consultations aimed at reducing tensions and paving the way for meaningful negotiations, the Foreign Office said.
“Pakistan is actively working to create a conducive environment for de-escalation and dialogue,” Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi told reporters during a weekly briefing in Islamabad, adding that the next phase would focus on substantive negotiations among relevant stakeholders.
The statement comes amid a more than month-long conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which began on February 28 and has affected the wider Middle East, triggering significant economic repercussions. The situation has disrupted global energy markets, particularly due to Iran’s effective blockade of oil and gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
The spokesperson said Pakistan had recently hosted key regional ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Egypt, and facilitated communication between Washington and Tehran.
He noted that both Iran and the United States had expressed confidence in Pakistan’s diplomatic role and appreciated its facilitation efforts. Pakistan has also offered to host negotiations as part of its broader outreach.
Responding to questions, Andrabi said there was no information regarding Israel’s participation in the ongoing negotiation process. He added that Pakistan remains engaged with the United States, European partners, as well as countries from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
“Despite challenges and obstacles, Pakistan will continue its efforts to promote facilitation and dialogue,” he said, stressing that the objective is to achieve de-escalation and a sustainable solution through negotiations.
He clarified that discussions around a proposed four-country consultative process should not be interpreted as an alliance, noting that the focus remains on enhancing cooperation and coordination.
“These consultations are being held in the context of promoting shared interests,” Andrabi said, adding that Pakistan is not exerting pressure on any party but supporting diplomacy.
He underscored that Iran, as a sovereign country, determines its own policies, and Pakistan’s efforts should not be seen as coercive.
Referring to Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s recent visit to China, the spokesperson said a joint five-point peace plan presented by China and Pakistan has received recognition at regional and global levels. The plan has been shared with Iran, the United States and other stakeholders, with consultations ongoing.
Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement is being viewed as a significant step towards achieving a ceasefire and ensuring lasting peace, Andrabi added, noting that several countries, including Malaysia and European states, have expressed support. The President of the European Council has also backed the initiative.
He further said that permission had been granted to 20 Pakistani-flagged vessels to transit, calling it a positive development for regional stability. The ships are continuing their movement as scheduled, although further operational details were not disclosed.
Separately, the Foreign Office confirmed that Pakistan has sent a delegation to Urumqi, China, for talks with Afghanistan. The delegation comprises senior officials, though details about its composition were not shared.
The meeting follows Ishaq Dar’s visit to Beijing, where he met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. China has been seeking to mediate tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan amid rising cross-border security concerns.
The spokesperson said there has been no change in Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq, with security operations continuing as planned despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Commenting on regional narratives, Andrabi criticised India’s stance on sectarian identity, calling attempts to portray divisions within Islam as misguided and dangerous. He warned that such narratives could fuel sectarianism and destabilise the region.
