LACHIN, MAY 27: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Lachin, Azerbaijan on Tuesday after concluding his official visit to Iran, where he met the country’s top leadership and discussed bilateral ties and regional security.
Upon arrival in Azerbaijan, the prime minister was received by Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov. PM Sharif is scheduled to participate in a key trilateral summit involving leaders from Pakistan, Turkey, and Azerbaijan.
The high-level meeting is expected to focus on economic cooperation, regional connectivity, and joint diplomatic efforts.
PM Sharif also expected to hold a significant bilateral meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. According to officials, he will express Pakistan’s gratitude for Azerbaijan’s unwavering support during periods of heightened tensions with India.
Visit to Iran
Earlier, PM Sharif visited Tehran where he held meetings with Iranian President Masoud Peshmerga and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
During a joint press conference, PM Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s willingness to engage in dialogue with India for regional peace. However, he warned that any provocative actions from New Delhi would be met with a “befitting response”.
“The need of the hour is for the international community to raise its voice for the people of Gaza,” the Prime Minister said, affirming Pakistan’s support for Iran’s right to pursue a peaceful nuclear program for civilian purposes.
The Iranian President lauded the ceasefire between Pakistan and India, noting that joint efforts are required to maintain regional stability. “As members of the OIC, both Iran and Pakistan must continue to stand against atrocities in Gaza,” he stated, thanking the Pakistani delegation for its visit.
Meeting with Ayatollah Khamenei
During his meeting with the Iranian Supreme Leader, PM Sharif briefed him on India’s recent aggressive actions and extended an invitation to visit Pakistan.
Ayatollah Khamenei, in a statement shared on social media platform X, affirmed Pakistan’s central role in the Islamic world and emphasized the need for collective efforts to end Israel’s occupation of Gaza.
The Prime Minister also welcomed Iran’s leadership in resuming nuclear negotiations with the United States, expressing optimism for a constructive agreement that would promote regional peace.
Delegation-level talks
The visit included one-on-one and delegation-level meetings between the Prime Minister and the Iranian President. According to a joint statement, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to resolving the Pak-Iran gas pipeline issue through mutual consultation.
They also discussed developments in Afghanistan, emphasizing that long-term peace and stability in the war-torn country were vital for broader regional prosperity.
