https://arab.news/gqfdx
- Shehbaz Sharif says on global multilateralism day his country is promoting dialogue for peace
- Pakistan has consistently warned multilateralism is ‘in peril’ amid eroding trust in institutions
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan said on Friday its ongoing mediation efforts between the United States and Iran are grounded in the principles of diplomacy and multilateralism, as it pushes to revive talks between the two sides amid a fragile ceasefire.
Islamabad has been positioning itself as a key intermediary by leveraging its ties with both Washington and Tehran to facilitate dialogue and reduce tensions following weeks of conflict that raised fears of a broader regional war.
The statement was issued by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to mark the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace, observed annually on Apr. 24.
The day was institutionalized by the United Nations General Assembly in 2018 to promote the use of multilateral decision-making and diplomacy in resolving disputes.
“At a time when the global community faces complex security challenges, Pakistan is promoting dialogue and diplomacy as the path toward regional and international peace and security,” Sharif said, according to a statement circulated by his office.
“Pakistan’s ongoing mediation efforts in the region are guided by these very principles,” he added.
In a separate message, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said the challenges confronting the international community at present demand a renewed commitment to dialogue, cooperation and respect for international law.
“At a time when conflicts are intensifying and trust in international institutions is eroding, multilateralism and diplomacy remain the only credible and sustainable pathways to peace,” he continued.
“As a country with a long-standing contribution to United Nations peacekeeping, and a firm belief in multilateral diplomacy, Pakistan will continue to play a constructive role in advancing dialogue, fostering cooperation, and reinforcing the multilateral system,” he added.
Last year in December, Pakistan’s envoy to the UN warned that multilateralism was “in peril” amid rising tensions, urging major powers to revive diplomacy to avert further erosion of global security.
Dar also called on the international community to reinvigorate multilateralism and strengthen diplomatic engagement to build a more peaceful and just world.