Pakistan’s Role in Peace Efforts Praised in UK Parliament; Keir Starmer Thanks Islamabad
Islamabad: Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts in facilitating ceasefire and peace initiatives between the United States and Iran have been widely discussed in the British Parliament, with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressing gratitude to Islamabad.
According to reports, members of Parliament highlighted Pakistan’s role in hosting and supporting talks aimed at reducing tensions and promoting dialogue between Washington and Tehran.
MP Afzal Khan stated that Pakistan effectively demonstrated leadership by facilitating negotiations, adding that the world owes appreciation to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and senior military leadership for their role in peace efforts.
He also questioned what support the UK, as an ally, had provided in assisting peace negotiations.
In response, Prime Minister Keir Starmer reportedly acknowledged Pakistan’s contribution, stating that he was grateful for Islamabad’s important role and noting that he had recently spoken with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He emphasized the importance of supporting diplomatic efforts for peace.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi revealed that negotiations were extremely close to reaching an agreement, describing discussions as being only “a few inches away” from a breakthrough.
In a post on X, he said Iran engaged in good-faith talks with the United States to end hostilities but faced increasing demands, shifting conditions, and pressure that ultimately hindered the agreement.
Araghchi added that the talks were very close to a memorandum of understanding in Islamabad, but differences in approach prevented a final deal.
