New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has lauded Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts in the Middle East in a phone call with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Prime Minister’s Office says.

According to PMO, the two leaders “exchanged views on the evolving situation in the Middle East” and PM Shehbaz briefed Luxon on Pakistan’s “ongoing diplomatic outreach”.

Luxon “expressed deep appreciation for Pakistan’s constructive diplomatic initiatives, including its outreach to both Washington and Tehran, and conveyed his best wishes for the success of the mediation efforts,” PMO said.

Both leaders agreed to remain in “close contact,” as per PMO.