ISLAMABAD: World leaders on Wednesday commended Pakistan for its diplomatic efforts after the United States and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire aimed at opening the door for broader negotiations.
In recent weeks, Pakistan has emerged as a key intermediary between Washington and Tehran, leveraging its engagement with U.S.
President Donald Trump to facilitate dialogue. Trump said the breakthrough followed direct discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir, who urged restraint and a pause in planned military escalation.
Sharif later confirmed that Islamabad will host delegations from both sides on Friday to continue negotiations following the ceasefire agreement.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also acknowledged the development, announcing a suspension of defensive operations and expressing appreciation for Pakistan’s role in de-escalation.
International leaders widely welcomed the move. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz praised Islamabad’s mediation efforts.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also welcomed the ceasefire, highlighting Pakistan’s contribution to promoting peace in the region.
European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas held talks with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, thanking him for helping secure the initial agreement while stressing the importance of continued diplomatic engagement.
Meanwhile, UK High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott lauded the country’s “quiet and effective” diplomacy in achieving the ceasefire.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters also expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s efforts, alongside those of other mediators such as Türkiye and Egypt.
In a joint statement, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong thanked Pakistan and other regional partners, including Saudi Arabia, for their role in advancing de-escalation efforts.
The ceasefire is being seen as a crucial step toward easing tensions in the Middle East, though leaders caution that sustained diplomacy will be essential to address the deeper causes of the conflict.
