As Pakistan prepares for the upcoming Islamabad Talks, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt gratitude to a host of international partners for their role in facilitating the recent ceasefire.
In a statement, he acknowledged the “invaluable and all-out support” of China, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt, and Qatar for enabling diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive and conclusive end to the conflict.
Sharif also recognized the consistent backing of the Gulf Cooperation Council, emphasizing that their commitment to regional peace and stability is “quintessential” to Pakistan’s efforts.
He highlighted the “exceptional strategic foresight, sagacity, and patience” demonstrated by the leadership of these nations and the United States in giving peace a chance.
“Let us all work together to forge a lasting peace in the region and beyond,” Sharif said, extending thanks to global partners and friends who have acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts for international stability.
The ceasefire was announced by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif saying that the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America, along with their allies, have agreed to an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire, effective across all theatres, including Lebanon.
“With the greatest humility, I am pleased to announce that Iran and the United States… have agreed to an immediate ceasefire everywhere… effective immediately,” Sharif said, describing the move as a “sagacious gesture” aimed at restoring peace and stability in the conflict-hit region.
Welcoming the development, the Pakistani leader extended gratitude to the leadership of both nations and formally invited their delegations to Islamabad for high-level talks on April 10. The proposed dialogue—dubbed the ‘Islamabad Talks’—is expected to focus on forging a comprehensive and lasting agreement to resolve longstanding disputes.
Sharif underscored that both sides had demonstrated “remarkable wisdom and understanding” and remained constructively engaged in advancing the cause of peace. “We earnestly hope the Islamabad Talks will succeed in achieving sustainable peace,” he added, expressing optimism about further positive developments in the coming days.
US President Donald Trump also signalled Washington’s support for de-escalation efforts, reinforcing hopes that the ceasefire could mark the beginning of a broader diplomatic reset in West Asia.
US special presidential envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, as well as Vice President JD Vance, are expected to take part in the talks with Iran in Islamabad.
