Tehran, 26 May 2025 — PM Shehbaz Sharif on Monday expressed Pakistan’s readiness to engage in peace talks with India, including dialogue on the Kashmir dispute and water-related issues. He made the statement during a high-level meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian at the Saadabad Palace in Tehran.
PM Reaffirms Pakistan’s Peaceful Intentions
Addressing a joint press conference, Prime Minister Shehbaz emphasized Pakistan’s desire to resolve all disputes with India peacefully. “We want peace, and we are ready to talk — be it Kashmir, water issues, trade, or counter-terrorism,” he said. He urged India to reciprocate sincerely, warning that Pakistan would defend itself if aggression continued.
The Prime Minister recalled that even the Indian Parliament had once supported a plebiscite in Kashmir, and he cited the United Nations resolutions as the foundation for peaceful settlement.
Strengthening Pakistan-Iran Relations
Prime Minister Shehbaz hailed his meeting with President Pezeshkian as “productive and useful,” highlighting mutual agreement to expand cooperation in trade, investment, and all areas of bilateral interest. He also thanked Iran for supporting Pakistan during the recent military conflict with India.
“I deeply appreciate your brotherly concern and your support for peace in the region,” PM Shehbaz told the Iranian president. He also praised Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for visiting Pakistan and holding sincere talks during the crisis.
Regional Tour for Diplomatic Support
Tehran is the second stop on the Prime Minister’s four-nation diplomatic tour. Earlier, in Turkiye, he met President Erdogan and thanked him for backing Pakistan. PM Shehbaz’s delegation includes top officials such as Deputy PM Ishaq Dar, Army Chief Asim Munir, and Interior Minister Mohsin Raza Naqvi. He is also scheduled to meet Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei to discuss regional security and cooperation.
