ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and the Foreign Minister of Iran, Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, held a bilateral meeting on Friday to reaffirm their mutual commitment to fostering regional peace, stability, and collective economic prosperity. The meeting, which took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) meeting in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyz Republic, served as a platform for both leaders to strengthen diplomatic cooperation.

Review of Bilateral Ties and Regional Security

During their deliberations, both ministers emphasized the significance of the longstanding historical and cultural ties between Pakistan and Iran. They conducted a comprehensive review of the evolving security landscape within the region, recognizing the necessity for ongoing high-level dialogue. Following his recent engagements in the region, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar expressed deep concern regarding the recent escalation in regional tensions. He advocated for a policy centered on diplomatic restraint, de-escalation, and sustained engagement among all stakeholders to secure lasting stability, specifically citing the frameworks established under the Islamabad MoU of June 2026.

Humanitarian Cooperation and Diplomatic Support

Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi formally acknowledged Pakistan’s consistent diplomatic support and its constructive role in regional peacekeeping efforts. A significant portion of the discussion focused on humanitarian cooperation; the Iranian Foreign Minister expressed his gratitude to the Pakistani government for its role in facilitating the safe repatriation of Iranian fishermen and crew members. This included logistical coordination for individuals aboard vessels previously interdicted by the U.S., highlighting the effective communication between Pakistan, Iran, and other relevant international authorities to ensure the secure transit and safe return of these individuals.