TEHRAN: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday underlined that the current situation in the Gulf requires avoidance of military conflict and constructive engagement of all parties of the region.

Talking to Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and other Iranian leadership in Tehran, he conveyed Pakistan’s readiness to extend full facilitation of efforts for de-escalation of tensions and resolution of differences and disputes through political and diplomatic means.

Imran Khan visited Tehran as part of his initiative to promote peace and security in the Gulf.

He was accompanied by a high-level delegation including Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Special Assistant to PM Syed Zulfiqar Abbas Bukhari and senior officials.

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During his meeting with President Hassan Rouhani, the PM reiterated his commitment to further strengthen bilateral relations in diverse areas, with a particular focus on enhanced trade and economic cooperation. He said that close cooperative ties with Iran had always been a priority for Pakistan.

He also expressed gratitude over Iran’s support on the Kashmir issue as the lockdown of over eight million people in Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir continued for 69 days. He apprised Rouhani of the dire human rights and humanitarian situation created since India’s illegal and unilateral actions of 5 August and the serious risk posed to peace and security in the region.

Imran Khan also called on Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei and conveyed that people of Pakistan deeply valued the personal commitment of the Supreme Leader to the cause of Kashmir. He reaffirmed his resolve to comprehensively upgrade Pakistan- Iran relations. He also apprised the leader of his initiative for regional peace and security.

The prime minister’s wide-ranging talks with the Iranian leadership were held in an atmosphere of cordiality and understanding, with the Iranian side appreciating Pakistan’s sincere efforts for the preservation of peace and security in the region.

The overall exchange of views was constructive and encouraging. Both sides agreed to stay engaged and consult closely to take the process forward.