ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and the Foreign Minister of Iran, Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, agreed on Friday to maintain close coordination and regular consultations on issues of mutual interest. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working together for regional peace, stability, and shared prosperity.

The high-level meeting took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) meeting in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyz Republic, according to an official press statement. During the session, the ministers reviewed the evolving regional security landscape and underscored the longstanding bilateral ties between Pakistan and Iran.

Focus on Diplomatic De-escalation

Senator Dar expressed deep concern over recent regional tensions. He stressed the vital importance of dialogue, strategic restraint, and immediate de-escalation by all involved parties. The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted that sustained diplomatic engagement remains the only path to achieving lasting peace. Furthermore, he emphasized the necessity of implementing the specific understandings reached under the Islamabad MoU of June 2026.

Support for Regional Cooperation

Foreign Minister Araghchi expressed his appreciation for Pakistan’s consistent diplomatic support and its constructive role in fostering regional security. As noted in previous high-level exchanges, such as those documented in Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar’s ongoing diplomatic engagements, Pakistan remains a pivotal player in regional stability.

The Iranian Foreign Minister also extended his gratitude to Pakistan for facilitating the safe return of Iranian fishermen and crew members. This assistance included the repatriation of individuals from vessels interdicted by the U.S., with Pakistan acting as a critical liaison in close coordination with Iranian, U.S., and other relevant international authorities to ensure their safe transit and eventual return to Iran.