ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Wednesday voiced deep concern over the resurgence of violence in Yemen amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
In a statement, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said that Pakistan expresses complete solidarity with Saudi Arabia and reaffirms its commitment to the security of the kingdom.
He said that Islamabad reiterates its support for the unity and territorial integrity of Yemen.
The spokesperson said that Islamabad would support all efforts aimed at establishing lasting peace and stability in the country.
Tensions gripped the Middle East after a Saudi-led coalition carried out an airstrike on the southern Yemeni port of Mukalla, targeting what it described as foreign military support for UAE-backed southern separatists.
The United Arab Emirates expressed its displeasure over the statement issued by Riyadh and announced that it had voluntarily ended the mission of its counterterrorism units in Yemen.
Reacting to the evolving situation in the Middle East, the spokesperson said that Islamabad strongly opposes unilateral steps by any Yemeni party that may further escalate the situation, undermine peace efforts, and threaten the peace and stability of Yemen as well as that of the region.
“Pakistan welcomes regional efforts for de-escalating the situation and maintaining peace and stability in Yemen,” he added.
Pakistan maintains its firm support for the resolution of the Yemen issue through dialogue and diplomacy, he added.
The spokesperson hoped that Yemen’s people and regional powers would work together towards an inclusive and enduring settlement of the issue, safeguarding regional stability.
PM emphasises maintaining peace through regional dialogues
Separately, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephonic call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, emphasising maintaining peace and stability through dialogue and diplomacy.
During the telephonic conversation, both leaders discussed bilateral ties and the evolving situation in the region.
The premier emphasised the need for unity and coordination within the Muslim Ummah to address the current challenges.
The prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and highlighted the importance of maintaining peace and security through regional dialogue and diplomacy.
The Saudi crown prince thanked the prime minister for making the telephone call and reaffirmed commitment to increase cooperation with Pakistan in areas of mutual interest.
The MBS also expressed his wish to pay an official visit to Pakistan next year.
Both leaders reaffirmed their resolve to further strengthen the long-standing brotherly relations between the two countries.
Relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia reached new heights in recent months, read the statement.
