NEW YORK: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has reaffirmed Tehran’s acceptance of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and indicated that Iran is ready to take the framework forward, according to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Shehbaz made the remarks after meeting Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where the two leaders discussed the continuing regional conflict and efforts to reduce tensions.
According to the prime minister, Pezeshkian said the Islamabad MoU remained “fully acceptable” to Iran and that there was a need to move it forward.
Pakistan’s official account of the meeting said Shehbaz underscored the importance of implementing the Islamabad MoU and reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to continue playing a sincere and constructive role in support of regional peace and stability.
The Prime Minister’s Office said the two leaders called for restraint, de-escalation and sustained diplomatic engagement. Pezeshkian also expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts, according to the statement.
The latest exchange does not amount to a new agreement or confirmation that the framework has been implemented. It does, however, indicate that Tehran continues to regard the Pakistan-backed understanding as a possible basis for further diplomatic work.
Shehbaz said Pakistan would continue working with Iran and other friendly countries to reduce regional tensions. The meeting took place as diplomatic efforts continue around the Strait of Hormuz and the wider conflict.
For Islamabad, Iran’s renewed acceptance of the MoU keeps Pakistan’s mediation effort relevant at a time when the conflict is directly affecting regional security, shipping and energy markets.