Lahore (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday conveyed hope that the world stands nearer than ever to achieving a ceasefire in Gaza since the beginning of the atrocities against the Palestinian people.
Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, he reiterated that Pakistan has consistently backed the Palestinians and would remain steadfast in its commitment to their cause.
He expressed appreciation to US President Donald Trump and the leaders of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Turkiye, Jordan, Egypt, and Indonesia for the efforts they made during the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session, where they held discussions with Trump to further the pursuit of a solution to the Palestine question.
Commenting on recent developments, the prime minister noted that the statement released by Hamas signals a glimmer of hope for a ceasefire and offers a path toward peace. He emphasized that such an opening must not be allowed to close once again.
PM Shehbaz assured that Pakistan, Insha’Allah, would keep working in close partnership with its trusted and brotherly nations to strive for enduring peace in Palestine.
Earlier, Pakistan hailed Hamas’ response to the peace initiative unveiled by US President Donald Trump, describing it as a crucial chance to bring violence in Gaza to an end.
In a statement released in Islamabad by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), it was noted that this development opens the way for an urgent ceasefire, protection of Palestinian lives, the release of hostages along with Palestinian detainees, unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid, and the beginning of a genuine political process aimed at lasting peace.
The FO emphasized that Israel must immediately halt its aggression. The statement also conveyed appreciation for President Trump’s role in attempting to secure peace in Gaza, expressing hope that these efforts would translate into a sustainable ceasefire as well as a fair and comprehensive resolution.
“Pakistan reaffirms its commitment to remain engaged in the process in a constructive and meaningful way,” the statement said.
It further reiterated Pakistan’s consistent support for the Palestinian cause, stressing complete solidarity with the Palestinian people in their legitimate struggle for self-determination.
“Pakistan reaffirms that peace can only be secured through the establishment of an independent, viable, and contiguous Palestinian state, based on the pre-1967 boundaries, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital, in line with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions,” the FO statement said.