AFTER pursuing prudent diplomacy before, during and after military standoff with India, Pakistan earned appreciation of regional and global powers for its mature approach towards the Iran-Israel conflict.
The latest crisis presented formidable foreign policy challenges but the country emerged tall because of its principled stance.
It is an open secret that some vested interests launched a venomous campaign to discredit the government and tried to create misunderstanding between Pakistan and Iran citing the decision to nominate President Donald Trump for Nobel Peace Prize and spreading disinformation about alleged willingness of Pakistan to provide military bases to the US for any action against Tehran. They must now be frustrated because of the fact that Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian appreciated Pakistan’s consistent and principled support during the recent Middle East crisis. The appreciation came during a telephonic conversation with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who reiterated Pakistan’s backing for Iran at international forums, including the United Nations Security Council and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The Iranian decision to hit the American base in Qatar with missiles was a delicate move but Pakistan promptly expressed concern over the development. In this backdrop, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has acknowledged Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting a peaceful resolution to the conflict. During their telephonic conversation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is hoped that Pakistan’s cautious but realistic policy will help promote its ties with all countries of the region and boost its credentials as a responsible member of the international community.
