Ishaq Dar on Friday expressed concern over rising regional tensions and stressed the need for dialogue, de-escalation and continued diplomatic engagement to achieve lasting peace and stability.

Dar met Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) meeting in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyz Republic.

Pakistan Urges Return to Diplomacy

During the meeting, Dar emphasised the importance of building on the understandings reached under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in June 2026.

He also urged the United States and Iran to return to diplomacy based on the Islamabad MoU, saying dialogue remains essential for maintaining regional peace.

The two foreign ministers reaffirmed the longstanding ties between Pakistan and Iran and reviewed the evolving regional situation.

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Iran Appreciates Pakistan’s Support

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi thanked Pakistan for its continued diplomatic support and efforts to promote regional peace and security.

He also expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s assistance in facilitating the safe return of Iranian fishermen and crew members, including those from vessels intercepted by the United States.

Araghchi acknowledged Pakistan’s coordination with Iranian, US and other relevant authorities to ensure their safe transit through Pakistan and return to Iran.

Dar Holds Talks with China’s Wang Yi

On the sidelines of the SCO meeting, Dar also met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

The two leaders discussed bilateral relations, regional developments and cooperation within multilateral forums.

Dar thanked Wang Yi for recognising Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to promote regional peace and stability during the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers meeting.