Pakistani media Dunya News reported on August 25 that Pakistani Interior Minister Nekve said he and Army Chief of Staff Asim Muneer had conducted positive and productive talks with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi. The two sides discussed the US-Iran conflict, the tensions in the Middle East, and future developments. They also reviewed the measures needed to implement the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding in order to fully resolve conflicts.
Nakwe said that Iran fully expressed its position and concerns, and significant progress was made during the talks. The atmosphere was friendly. He hoped that the positive momentum created by this meeting would create favorable conditions for the subsequent development and long-term stability of the region.
According to the Iranian Presidential Palace, President Pezhvarzhian emphasized during his meeting with Munir on the 24th that the US needs to adjust its policy and wording towards Iran. He stated that 'unilateral coercion and power tactics will only make the situation more complicated.'
He pointed out that Iran, thanks to its internal cohesion, can withstand external pressures and threats. He believes that establishing lasting peace in the region and enhancing cooperation with Islamic nations is a fundamental requirement. Iran is willing to engage in multi-field cooperation with neighboring countries and the Islamic world. At the same time, he called for the Islamic world to strengthen unity in order to jointly address external challenges such as those posed by Israel. He also expressed hope that Pakistan would contribute to easing regional tensions through diplomatic means.
According to Iranian official media Press TV, Munir met with Iran's Parliament Speaker Bager Gil-Kalibaf and Interior Minister Iskander Moemin on the 24th. Both sides discussed bilateral relations and regional developments.
It is reported that Munir told Kalibaf that Pakistan ‘will continue to work towards restoring stability in the region’. Kalibaf reiterated Iran’s commitment to maintaining the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, and criticized the United States for failing to fulfill its promises. He said that the US’s attitude ‘has hindered regional stability and further weakened international confidence in Washington’.
Pakistani military previously stated in a statement that the visit of the Chief of the Army Staff was 'part of Pakistan's efforts to promote peace and stability in the region'. The statement said: 'The Chief of the Army Staff will focus on promoting efforts towards a peaceful, lasting, and comprehensive resolution of the conflicts in the Middle East.'
This visit takes place at a time when tensions are escalating. Iran has threatened to respond militarily to U.S. sanctions plans. The visit also coincides with the arrival in Tehran of Oman's Foreign Minister Badr al-Buseid on Tuesday, where he is scheduled to hold talks with Iranian officials.
Regarding this, Ismail Bagheri, a spokesman for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that the visit of the Pakistani Army Chief of Staff had nothing to do with the itinerary of the Omani Foreign Minister. Both visits were scheduled to discuss regional security issues. He noted that Iran has used all diplomatic means to prevent and end wars, but the United States has repeatedly violated its commitments, including those made in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. He added that Tehran will continue to defend its interests without being passive. He also warned the countries in the region that any cooperation with the United States in aggression against Iran, including maritime blockades, would have consequences.
According to the Iranian Fars News Agency, Mounir will also have discussions with other senior Iranian officials during his visit.
It is understood that Pakistan has been leading the peace process and revitalizing its mediation efforts in the stalled U.S-Iran peace negotiations. In April, Pakistan successfully helped to secure a ceasefire and reached an agreement to end the conflict between the United States and Iran. However, the peace process has since stalled and has not resumed as planned.
