ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Saturday stressed the need for uninterrupted energy supplies and safe passage for ships amid growing regional tensions.
Dar made the remarks during a telephone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, according to the Foreign Office.
The two foreign ministers discussed the latest regional developments. They also agreed to maintain close cooperation.
Furthermore, Dar and Araghchi agreed to meet in New York on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly.
Dar also stressed the importance of ensuring the safe and swift passage of ships. He highlighted the issue because disruptions could affect developing countries and global supply chains.
The deputy prime minister also reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy offer the only viable path toward regional peace and stability.
Pakistan Raises Concerns Over Maritime Security
The conversation came as Pakistan raised concerns about disruptions to major maritime routes.
Earlier, Pakistan called on Yemen’s Houthis to immediately stop attacks on merchant ships and seafarers in the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
Speaking at a UN Security Council Arria-formula meeting, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, stressed the need to protect freedom of navigation and commercial shipping.
He said attacks on merchant vessels and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could affect global peace, regional stability, energy security and food supplies.
Pakistan also condemned what it described as attempts by the Houthis to weaponise the Bab al-Mandab waterway.
Meanwhile, the UN has warned about the wider effects of disruptions to major maritime routes. UN officials have linked problems in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab to higher risks for food and energy supplies.
Focus on Regional Stability
Dar has repeatedly called for dialogue and diplomacy to address regional tensions. Pakistan has also remained engaged with Iran and other countries as the regional situation develops.
Saturday’s conversation further highlighted Islamabad’s focus on diplomatic engagement with Tehran.
At the same time, both countries face wider regional challenges linked to energy supplies and maritime security.
The upcoming meeting between Dar and Araghchi in New York will provide another opportunity for the two sides to discuss regional developments and strengthen coordination.
