WASHINGTON (Kashmir English): Pakistan’s Ambassador to the US Rizwan Saeed Sheikh has said that the US and Iran have expressed confidence in Pakistan for the mediation role.
In an interview with American broadcaster Fox News, Ambassador Rizwan shed detailed light on the current situation in the Middle East region and Pakistan’s role in the Iran-US talks and future course of action.
He said that Islamabad’s role in mediating the recent dispute between the US and Iran is in the broader regional interest.
He expressed satisfaction that both sides have expressed confidence in Pakistan, for which Islamabad is grateful.
“This is a very complex matter in which political, economic, and regional factors are involved; however, Pakistan has a long tradition of peace-based diplomacy,” the Pakistan envoy said.
Ambassador Sheikh said that Pakistan’s recent offer is based on good faith, which also includes other regional countries.
Rizwan expressed the hope that matters will be taken forward in the broader interest of the region. He said that diplomacy is a gradual process that takes time, and Pakistan is committed to providing all possible facilities for fruitful talks; however, the responsibility for final decisions lies with the parties concerned.
Situation in Afghanistan
Discussing the situation in Afghanistan, the Pakistani ambassador clarified that Pakistan is the most affected country by cross-border terrorism.
He said that despite repeated identification of terrorist activities and hideouts, Pakistan was forced to take measures on its own due to the lack of effective action by the Afghan government.
He added that Pakistan cannot see its people falling victim to terrorism, and there is clear evidence of state terrorism originating from Afghanistan. He also said that terrorism against Pakistan is being sponsored by India.
The Pakistani ambassador reiterated that Pakistan believes in dialogue and diplomacy and will continue its efforts for peace and stability in the region.
