Pakistan calls for de-escalation around Strait of Hormuz

Pakistan has called for reduced tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and reaffirmed its readiness to support diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing further regional escalation.

The country's Foreign Ministry said Islamabad, together with Qatar and other regional partners, is continuing efforts to bring Iran and the United States back to a technical dialogue mechanism under the Islamabad Memorandum, Caliber.Az reports.

“We note with concern that the security situation remains precarious, despite the relative calm of past few days, which had rekindled hopes that this positive development would consolidate into a durable and fully respected ceasefire and pave the way for dialogue,” it noted.

The Foreign Ministry further stated that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and senior diplomatic officials held talks with Saudi Arabia, reaffirming Pakistan's readiness to help ensure the security of maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea under bilateral defence commitments.

In addition, the ministry announced the entry into force of a defence cooperation agreement between Pakistan and Kuwait.

The agreement provides for joint training exercises and is aimed at strengthening regional stability.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov