Islamabad, 24 June (H.S.):

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday held separate meetings with Pakistan's top civilian and military leadership during a one-day visit to Islamabad, with discussions centred on regional peace, bilateral cooperation, and the ongoing diplomatic process between Iran and the United States.

President Pezeshkian met Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir. The visit came just days after Iran and the United States concluded talks in Switzerland and agreed on a roadmap aimed at reaching a final agreement within 60 days.

Addressing a joint press conference after delegation-level talks, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed optimism that the recent understanding between Washington and Tehran could open a new chapter of peace, stability, and economic prosperity across West Asia. He welcomed the end of the recent conflict and said Pakistan had played the role of a sincere and impartial facilitator in encouraging dialogue between the two countries.

Sharif also praised the Iranian leadership for its handling of the crisis and said Islamabad remained committed to supporting diplomatic solutions to regional disputes. Referring to questions on Iran's missile programme, he stated that the issue was not part of the discussions between Iran and the United States.

President Pezeshkian thanked Pakistan for its diplomatic support throughout the recent crisis and said the relationship between Tehran and Islamabad is built on mutual trust and respect. He noted that recent developments had provided fresh momentum to bilateral ties and reaffirmed Iran's belief that lasting regional peace can only be achieved through dialogue and mutual understanding.

He also called for new regional security arrangements aimed at promoting long-term stability and cooperation among neighbouring countries.

During his meeting with President Asif Ali Zardari, both leaders reviewed bilateral relations, regional security, economic cooperation, connectivity projects, and other issues of mutual interest. President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan's support for Iran's sovereignty, territorial integrity, national unity, and efforts to maintain regional peace.

The Iranian President also met Field Marshal Asim Munir, where both sides discussed regional security challenges and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Pakistan-Iran relations through continued consultations and cooperation. Pakistan's military leadership reiterated its support for dialogue, de-escalation, and peaceful resolution of regional disputes.

Earlier on Tuesday, President Pezeshkian arrived at Nur Khan Airbase, where he was received by President Zardari, Prime Minister Sharif, and other senior officials. His aircraft was escorted by Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Thunder fighter jets after entering Pakistani airspace.

Before departing Tehran, Pezeshkian said the purpose of his visit was to support the implementation of the recently agreed memorandum under international law and strengthen peace and stability in West Asia. In a message posted on X, he stressed that the success of the diplomatic process would depend on all parties fully honouring their agreed commitments and implementing them in good faith.

Security remained tight across Islamabad throughout Tuesday, with authorities imposing additional precautionary measures during the Iranian President's visit.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar