Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday called for immediate measures for de-escalation in the Middle East amid rising US-Iran conflict following Iran's top commander Gen Qassem Soleimani’s killing in a US airstrike in Baghdad.
Talking to Oman's Minister for Endowment and Religious Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Muhammad bin Abdullah Assalami in Islamabad, the prime minister expressed deep concern over the evolving situation in the region, the Radio Pakistan reported.
The premier underlined the imperative of avoiding any further escalation.
Stressing that war is in nobody’s interest, PM Imran recalled that Pakistan has suffered greatly due to earlier regional conflicts. He made it clear that Pakistan would not be part of any conflict in the region.
Imran Khan also recalled his earlier efforts for facilitation of contacts between the US and Iran as well as Iran and Saudi Arabia for peaceful resolution of differences and disputes.
"Pakistan would always be a partner for peace and would continue playing its role to defuse tensions, prevent a conflict, and preserve peace", the PM said.
During the meeting, the recent developments in the Middle East and Gulf region were discussed.
PM Khan also highlighted the dire human rights and humanitarian situation arising out from the inhuman lockdown in the Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJK) for over five months and noted the discriminatory policies of the Bharatiya Janata Party government against minorities, especially Muslims.
He stressed upon the international community to take urgent steps to address this situation.
The prime minister while noting the traditionally close fraternal ties between Pakistan and Oman, expressed the desire to further strengthen the bilateral cooperation in all fields.
Prime Minister Imran Khan also extended cordial greetings and best wishes for Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al-Said.