PM leads Gulf outreach push

As Pakistan emerges as a key US-Iran mediator, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is spearheading a diplomatic drive to bring Gulf allies on board. In this regard, the prime minister held telephonic conversations with Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and discussed with them the war in the Middle East. In his discussion with the Saudi crown prince, the prime minister briefed him about Pakistan's constructive diplomatic outreach to all parties, urging de-escalation and resolution of differences through dialogue and diplomacy. During the "warm and cordial" conversation held early Wednesday morning, the crown prince deeply appreciated Pakistan's peace efforts. Prime Minister Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan's strong condemnation of the recent attacks on Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed Pakistan's complete solidarity and unequivocal support for the Kingdom and its people in these challenging times. Appreciating the Saudi leadership for demonstrating remarkable restraint in the current crisis, the prime minister reassured the crown prince that Pakistan would always stand by the kingdom and the brotherly people of Saudi Arabia, just as they had always supported Pakistan, through thick and thin. Prime Minister Shehbaz called for an immediate end to hostilities and a return to normalcy so that the regional situation could be stabilized, besides calling for unity and harmony in the ranks of the Ummah, which was needed more than ever before. The prime minister conveyed heartfelt Eidul Fitr greetings to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, to the crown prince, and the Saudi people. The crown prince also reciprocated the sentiments. Amir of Qatar Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday held a telephone conversation with Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and discussed regional situation. During their warm and cordial conversation, the prime minister conveyed Eidul Fitr greetings to the Amir of Qatar and the brotherly people of Qatar. These sentiments and good wishes were reciprocated by the Qatari Amir, a press release issued by the PM Office said. The prime minister expressed his serious concern over the ongoing hostilities in the region. He reiterated strong condemnation of the attacks against Qatar and other brotherly Gulf countries and conveyed deep condolences over the loss of precious lives in these attacks, while praying for the injured. He assured his highness of Pakistan's full solidarity and support with the brotherly people of Qatar, especially at this challenging time. While appreciating Qatar's remarkable restraint in the wake of the ongoing hostilities, the prime minister apprised the Amir of Pakistan's diplomatic outreach and its peace efforts. He emphasized that Pakistan had consistently called on all parties to de-escalate and resolve their differences through dialogue and diplomacy. His Highness the Amir appreciated Pakistan's sincere diplomatic efforts for regional peace. Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact in the coming days.