Tehran: President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized that enduring peace and security in the region could be achieved through cooperation and solidarity among regional countries, devoid of interference by external powers. He shared these views during a meeting with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Kyrgyzstan.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Pezeshkian stressed Iran's belief that peace and security should encompass the entire region, ensuring that people, irrespective of their religion, sect, or ethnicity, are not subjected to war, violence, and conflict. Expressing gratitude to Islamabad for its constructive role in facilitating Iran's recent agreement with the United States, Pezeshkian affirmed Iran's readiness to implement the agreement, contingent on the other party's commitment to its obligations.
Pezeshkian lauded the Mecca agreement involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, characterizing it as a step towards bolstering unity in the Islamic world. He highlighted that Muslim countries possess the capacity to resolve internal differences through dialogue and cooperation, without external intervention. Pezeshkian urged other regional and Muslim countries to join the process and broaden cooperation in defense, political, economic, and cultural areas.
Prime Minister Sharif noted that recent regional tensions and insecurity had raised concerns globally, underscoring the necessity of enhanced regional coordination. He described the Mecca agreement as defensive and not targeted against any nation, aiming to foster peace and security in the region and protect the interests of regional countries.
Sharif expressed that international public opinion largely favored Iran and hoped that dialogue and implementation of agreements would further peace and security in the region. Pakistani state television reported Sharif's remarks about his discussion with President Pezeshkian on key issues, expressing optimism about collaborative efforts to promote regional peace and stability. Sharif reiterated Pakistan's commitment to reducing tensions and advancing de-escalation efforts across the region.