ISLAMABAD, Nov 4: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday reaffirmed his country’s commitment to restoring stability in West Asia, saying Islamabad was actively pursuing diplomatic initiatives despite the growing challenges confronting the region.
Speaking at a federal cabinet meeting, Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach, ongoing counter-terrorism efforts and measures to address the economic consequences of rising international oil prices.
He said Pakistan continued to contribute towards easing regional tensions and facilitating peace through engagement with neighbouring and other regional countries.
Referring to recent diplomatic activities, the prime minister said Pakistani representatives had held discussions with Iran on two occasions during the preceding two to three weeks. The meetings focused on reducing tensions and exploring opportunities for stronger regional cooperation.
Sharif also referred to the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement signed by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye in August. Under the arrangement, an armed attack against any one of the three participating nations would be treated as an attack against all.
Pakistan has also been involved in diplomatic efforts to ease tensions between Washington and Tehran, positioning itself as a mediator between the two sides.
In June, Islamabad helped facilitate a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran, aimed at stopping hostilities and establishing a framework for further negotiations. However, the initiative subsequently lost momentum following renewed tensions, with the proposed 60-day framework ending without a comprehensive settlement.
On the domestic front, Sharif reiterated that his government would take decisive steps to eliminate militancy, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He announced that a proposed financial package worth Rs 160 billion had been finalised for the province. The funds are intended to support infrastructure development, improve public welfare and enhance security arrangements, including counter-terrorism capabilities.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has remained under governor’s rule and a state of emergency since October, following President Asif Ali Zardari’s suspension of the provincial government led by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), headed by jailed former prime minister Imran Khan.
The decision came amid concerns over deteriorating security conditions and governance in the province.
Sharif stressed that eliminating terrorism would require a coordinated approach involving the armed forces, provincial authorities and the federal administration. He maintained that his government remained committed to restoring security and ensuring stability in the region.