ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with leaders from Iran, Turkiye, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan on Friday, holding a series of bilateral discussions on the sidelines of the 17th Economic Cooperation Organisation Summit focused on regional peace, security and economic partnership.
In his meeting with Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian, PM Shehbaz vowed to work closely with Iran for peace in the region.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the two discussed the regional situation following what was termed “Israel’s illegitimate aggression against Iran.”
PM Shehbaz praised Iran’s decision to reach a ceasefire during the crisis and reaffirmed Pakistan’s “unwavering solidarity with the people and Government of Iran.”
President Pezeshkian thanked PM Shehbaz for Pakistan’s diplomatic support and its role in de-escalating the conflict.
The prime minister’s meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan saw the two leaders conduct a wide-ranging review of bilateral ties.
Both leaders emphasised deepening cooperation in trade, defence, energy and investment and agreed to exchange high-level delegations to finalise recent understandings.
Talks with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev focused on connectivity projects, particularly the Trans-Afghan Railway Project.
Both sides agreed on visits by senior ministers to finalise necessary agreements on the subject, underscoring the “cultural, civilisational and historical ties” between the two nations as a foundation for a robust partnership.
The prime minister also met with the summit’s host, Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev.
PM Shehbaz thanked Aliyev for Azerbaijan’s “steadfast support” during Pakistan’s recent conflict with India, noting that Islamabad had likewise stood by Baku in difficult times.
The two leaders agreed to enhance cooperation in trade and investment.
Published in Dawn, July 5th, 2025