Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, currently on a visit to Iran, has stated his country's readiness to engage in dialogue with India to resolve outstanding disputes, including the Kashmir issue and water security. Sharif made these remarks on Monday, May 26, during his tour of four friendly nations.
Iran Visit and Diplomatic Engagements
Earlier on Monday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian welcomed Prime Minister Sharif at the Saadabad Palace in Tehran, where Sharif received a guard of honor. Addressing a joint press conference with President Pezeshkian, Sharif noted that discussions between the delegations of both countries were "very fruitful and effective, covering all areas of mutual interest and cooperation."
Sharif emphasized that Pakistan and Iran, as "two brotherly and neighboring countries, must enhance cooperation in trade, investment, commerce, and indeed in every aspect of life," adding that full consensus was reached on this matter. He also thanked Pezeshkian for Iran's support during the recent military tensions with India, highlighting the deep cultural and historical ties between the two nations. They resolved to transform these relationships into "highly productive cooperation in various fields of life."
Stance on Recent India-Pakistan Tensions
Regarding the recent tensions with India, Sharif asserted, "Pakistan emerged victorious from this conflict through the courageous actions of our extraordinary armed forces." He reiterated Pakistan's desire for peace, stating, "We wanted peace, we want peace, and we will work for peace in the region through dialogue."
Sharif affirmed that Pakistan is prepared to continue discussions to resolve "our unresolved issues, including the Kashmir dispute, in accordance with the resolutions adopted by the UN Security Council and even the resolution of the Indian Lok Sabha in 1954."
He further added, "We are ready to discuss water-related issues with our neighbor for the sake of peace. We are also ready to discuss increasing trade and combating terrorism." However, he warned, "But if they choose an aggressive path, we will defend our territory, as we did a few days ago. But if they accept my peace offer, we will show that we truly desire peace, seriously and sincerely."
Later on Monday night, the Prime Minister also met with Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Regional Diplomacy and Recent Conflicts
Prior to his visit to Iran, Sharif was in Turkey for a two-day visit, where he met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. During their meeting, he thanked Turkey for its support during the recent conflict and discussed bilateral trade and investment.
Last month, India conducted military strikes in Pakistan in retaliation for an attack by gunmen in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 people. Pakistan responded with counter-attacks, leading to the most severe military conflict between India and Pakistan in decades. After four days of continuous clashes, both countries agreed to a ceasefire on May 10.
