Efforts on to make Mideast truce permanent: Dar
• At Paigham-i-Islam moot, PM says Pakistan has emerged as key force for regional peace, stability
• Forum dubs Field Marshal Munir ‘Greatest Victorious General of the Century’ for his achievements
ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Wednesday said Pakistan has been making efforts to turn the indefinite ceasefire, brokered by Islamabad between the US and Iran, into a permanent end to the conflict.
Speaking at the 6th International Paigham-i-Islam Conference, the deputy prime minister called on the council to pray for Pakistan’s efforts, which were geared towards turning the ceasefire into a permanent truce.
The minister said that Pakistan’s efforts had been directed towards securing direct negotiations and a ceasefire — “first it happened, then it was extended, then extended a second time, then a third time”. “At least the deaths of several hundred people a day — with the toll going into the thousands — have been prevented,” he added.
The deputy premier noted Pakistan’s role in bringing the US and Iran to direct negotiations for the first time in 47 years. He said that Pakistan “played its full part” from February 28 until today in its response to the conflict.
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Shehbaz said Pakistan emerged as a key force for peace and stability in the region, as he credited the country’s diplomatic efforts for facilitating unprecedented talks between Iran and the US.
He said Pakistan successfully persuaded the leadership of the US and Iran to engage in dialogue for the first time since 1979, with talks held in Islamabad on April 11 and 12. He expressed gratitude to both countries for accepting Pakistan’s invitation and agreeing to a ceasefire.
“This reflects the trust the international community places in Pakistan,” he said, adding that the country had delivered a significant service aimed at ensuring peace and stability in the region.
Referring to recent challenges, the prime minister said the entire nation remained united, regardless of sectarian differences, and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining peace. He also urged clerics to play their role in promoting harmony.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s stance on Palestine and Kashmir, he said the country would continue supporting them until they achieved independence.
The PM also distributed shields among renowned personalities in recognition of their services to the Muslim world.
At the event, PM Shehbaz was presented a shield of appreciation for his firm and unequivocal stance on key international issues, particularly Palestine. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman was also honoured with a special award for his contributions to the defence cooperation with Pakistan and fostering unity in the Muslim world.
‘Leader of Peace’
The conference also awarded the titles of ‘Leader of Peace’ and ‘Greatest Victorious General of the Century’ to Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir in acknowledgement of his role in promoting peace and strengthening stability across the Muslim nation.
The forum expressed concerns over the strikes targeting Arab countries, terming them detrimental to regional stability, while calling for national security, unity of the Muslim world, and enhanced interfaith harmony.
Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Hafiz Tahir Ashrafi reaffirmed full support for the government, the armed forces, and security institutions, acknowledging their efforts in safeguarding the country.
He emphasised the need for unity and cohesion within the Muslim nation, endorsing Pakistan’s stance on regional issues, including its position regarding Iran and relations with Arab and Islamic countries.
At the moot, it was announced that the Seventh International Paigham-i-Islam Conference will be held next year in March 2027, with invitations to be extended to global religious leaders, including the Imam of the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Pope, among others, to promote interfaith harmony.
The conference also condemned the killing of a religious scholar Maulana Muhammad Idrees, stating that acts of violence, extortion, and lawlessness had no connection with Islam.
Published in Dawn, May 7th, 2026