Pakistan for peace in the region
Riyadh: Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has underlined the need to reduce tension in the Gulf region to ensure peace, stability and security.
He was talking to his Saudi Counterpart Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud in Riyadh on Monday.
He said Pakistan would support all efforts for peace and provide all possible facilitation for constructive engagement among parties concerned.
The Foreign Minister underscored the need for all sides to exercise maximum restraint, avoid taking any further escalatory step, work for defusing tensions, and finding ways for constructive engagement.
He said issues and disputes should be resolved through diplomatic means peacefully. He said the situation of region will be dangerous if timely actions are not taken to reduce the tense situation. He also informed his counterpart about his contacts with regional Foreign Ministers on the situation to overcome the tension.
He said it is encouraging that Iran and the US have clearly said in their official statements that they want de-escalation in the region.
The Foreign Minister underscored that the fraternal ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia were deep-rooted and multi-faceted and the strategic relationship between the two countries was growing in myriad dimensions.
He highlighted the thrust of his diplomatic outreach as part of Prime Minister’s direction that Pakistan must support all efforts aimed at avoiding conflict and resolving differences and disputes through political and diplomatic means.
The Saudi Foreign Minister reaffirmed the strategic importance of Saudi-Pakistan relations and the resolve to deepen mutual cooperation in all fields. In the regional context, the Saudi Foreign Minister welcomed the Foreign Minister’s visit and Pakistan’s support for efforts to defuse tensions, preserve peace and security, and help find a diplomatic way forward. The two sides agreed to remain engaged and consult closely on issues affecting peace and security in the region and beyond.
He also appreciated the role of Prime Minister Imran Khan for his peace efforts to ensure peace and stability in the Gulf.
Later, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi left for Oman after completing his one-day visit to Saudi Arabia.
He was saw-off by DG Protocol of Saudi Foreign Ministry Abdullah M. Rashid at the Airport. Pakistani Abassador Raja Ali Ijaz and other senior officials of Pakistan Embassy were present at the Airport.
In Oman, the Foreign Minister will express condolence with the Royal family over the sad demise of Sultan of Oman Qaboos bin Said.
