ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Russia have agreed to launch joint efforts aimed at restoring peace in the region that has witnessed rising tensions between the United States and Iran.

The agreement came during a telephonic conversation between Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.

The two leaders discussed issues pertaining to soaring tensions in the Middle East and the overall situation in the region.

Also Read: Pakistan decides to play role to defuse tension between US, Iran

Foreign Minister Qureshi informed his Russian counterpart that an increase in tensions among the states could dent a severe blow to peace and stability in the region.

He said both sides had to show restraint in order to overcome the current escalated situation.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi, while reiterating Pakistan’s principled stance, made it clear that Pakistan will neither be a party to any new conflict in the region, nor will its land be used against any regional or neighbouring country.

The two foreign ministers also agreed to make joint efforts for regional peace.

US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi had said the House would vote on Jan 9 on a resolution intended to limit President Donald Trump’s military actions regarding Iran.

In a statement, she had said concerns about the administration’s strategy and decisions were not addressed in a briefing with lawmakers.

On Jan 7, President Donald Trump had said in his reaction to Iran’s ballistic missile attack on Iraq’s US forces, ‘It’s all right!’ and ‘so good, so far.‘

“Missiles launched from Iran at two military bases located in Iraq. Assessment of casualties & damages taking place now. So far, so good!” the president had tweeted.

Over a dozen ballistic missiles were launched by Iran targeting at least two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. forces and coalition forces in Iraq.

Later, Donald Trump said there were no American casualties in the Iranian strikes on military bases housing US troops in Iraq due to strict safety measures.