https://twitter.com/home https://www.facebook.com/Shabbir.Hussain191By Shabbir Hussain
ISLAMABAD, May 5 (Diplomatic Star): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Monday declared that India’s weaponization of the Indus Waters Treaty was “unacceptable” and constituted a red line for the people of Pakistan.
During a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, who is on an official visit to Islamabad, the prime minister expressed deep concerns over rising tensions in South Asia following the recent Pahalgam incident, blaming India’s “provocative behavior” for destabilizing the region.
He categorically rejected any attempt to link Pakistan to the Pahalgam attack without evidence and reiterated Pakistan’s call for an international, impartial, and transparent investigation to determine the truth.
“Pakistan has acted with maturity and responsibility,” PM Shehbaz said. “India, on the other hand, has created a media frenzy to divert global attention from the core issue of Jammu and Kashmir, which remains the root cause of regional instability,” he added, according to a press release by the PM Office Media Wing.
At the start of the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz offered heartfelt condolences over the tragic explosion in Bandar Abbas, Iran, which resulted in significant casualties. He prayed for the departed souls and the swift recovery of the injured.
The meeting was held in a cordial and fraternal atmosphere. The prime minister conveyed warm regards to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatullah Ali Khamenei and best wishes for newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian.
He also recalled his previous interactions and recent telephone conversation with President Pezeshkian, expressing satisfaction over the positive momentum in bilateral ties.
The prime minister emphasized strengthening cooperation with Iran in key areas such as trade, energy, border security, and regional connectivity, reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace, stability, and development.
Foreign Minister Araghchi delivered greetings from Iranian leadership and reaffirmed Iran’s desire to enhance ties with Pakistan. He also reiterated President Pezeshkian’s invitation for Prime Minister Shehbaz to visit Tehran later this year.
