Pakistan on Thursday reiterated that diplomacy and negotiations remain the only viable path to resolving tensions between the United States and Iran, saying the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) provides a strong framework for restoring peace and stability in the Middle East.
Speaking at the weekly media briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said Pakistan continues to engage with regional and international partners to help reduce tensions and encourage the resumption of dialogue.
He said Pakistan believes that lasting peace can only be achieved through negotiations, adding that the Islamabad MoU lays the foundation for mutual respect, regional stability and shared prosperity.
"Pakistan will continue encouraging all concerned parties to resume technical-level talks in line with the Islamabad MoU and the Pakistan-Qatar Joint Declaration of June 22, 2026," Andrabi said.
The spokesperson acknowledged that implementation of the agreement faces challenges but stressed that diplomacy remains the only sustainable solution to disputes in the region.
He warned that continued instability is affecting developing countries through disruptions to global energy supplies, trade and food security.
Andrabi expressed hope that normal shipping operations would soon resume in the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring safe, free and uninterrupted maritime traffic.
He said Pakistan has maintained continuous diplomatic engagement with key regional and international stakeholders throughout the crisis to promote dialogue and prevent further escalation.
The spokesperson highlighted Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's recent visit to Qatar alongside former prime minister Nawaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, saying the visit reaffirmed Pakistan's solidarity with Doha and its commitment to regional peace.
Responding to questions, Andrabi said mediation between Washington and Tehran remains challenging but stressed that "the peace process never ends."
He said whenever the concerned parties decide to return to negotiations, the Islamabad MoU and the Pakistan-Qatar Joint Declaration would serve as the basis for future dialogue.
The spokesperson also reiterated Pakistan's support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, emphasizing that Islamabad consistently advocates dialogue over confrontation.
No 'ice-break' with Afghanistan
Responding to questions about relations with Afghanistan, Andrabi rejected reports suggesting an improvement in ties between Islamabad and the Afghan Taliban administration.
"There has been no ice-break between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban regime," he said.
He maintained that meaningful progress in bilateral relations depended on concrete action against terrorist groups operating from Afghan territory.
The spokesperson also said Pakistan remained committed to improving the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan while maintaining diplomatic engagement on issues of mutual concern.
