By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Wednesday that Pakistan continues to play an active role in promoting regional peace, emphasizing its diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions and support stability.
Speaking during a cabinet meeting, he revealed that extended negotiations between Iran and the United States took place in Islamabad on April 11, lasting 21 hours and resulting in a notable diplomatic breakthrough. He credited the success of these talks to coordinated efforts by senior officials, including Syed Asim Munir and Ishaq Dar.
According to the prime minister, these efforts contributed to the extension of a ceasefire between Iran and the US, which remains in effect. He also acknowledged the role of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi in supporting the process.
PM Shehbaz further informed the cabinet that Abbas Araghchi visited Pakistan and engaged in multiple discussions, including a two-hour meeting with him. Araghchi reportedly assured a positive response after consulting Iran’s leadership.
However, the prime minister raised concerns about rising global oil prices, warning that new pricing expected on Friday could pose economic challenges. He expressed confidence that coordinated measures would help manage the situation.
He also praised Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik for maintaining stability in fuel supply and preventing panic buying. Despite these efforts, the country’s oil import bill has surged from $300 million to $800 million, increasing economic pressure.
PM Shehbaz noted that while Pakistan had made progress in stabilizing its economy, recent geopolitical tensions have affected those gains. He added that the country successfully repaid $3.5 billion in loans and maintained foreign exchange reserves, with support from Saudi Arabia, particularly acknowledging Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his assistance.
