FM Qureshi meets new Oman Sultan Haitham, condoles death of Sultan Qaboos

MUSCAT (92 News) – Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi called on new Oman Sultan Haitham bin Tariq al-Said to condole the death of former ruler Sultan Qaboos. He expresses grief over the death of Sultan Qaboos on behalf of the people of Pakistan. On his arrival, Sultan Haitham welcomed Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Earlier during a meeting with his Saudi counterpart Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud in Riyadh on Monday, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had underlined the need to reduce tension in the Gulf region to ensure peace, stability and security. During the meeting, detailed regional and global issues of mutual interest were discussed, including the tensions in the Middle East, and the law and order situation in the region. FM Qureshi said Pakistan would support all efforts for peace and provide all possible facilitation for constructive engagement among parties concerned. He underscored the need for all sides to exercise maximum restraint, avoid taking any further escalatory step, work for defusing tensions, and finding ways for constructive engagement. “Issues and disputes should be resolved through diplomatic means peacefully,” he added. The minister said the situation of region will be dangerous if timely actions are not taken to reduce the tense situation. He also informed his counterpart about his contacts with regional Foreign Ministers on the situation to overcome the tension.

Iran, US want de-escalation in region

FM Qureshi said it is encouraging that Iran and the US have clearly said in their official statements that they want de-escalation in the region. The Foreign Minister underscored that the fraternal ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia were deep-rooted and multi-faceted and the strategic relationship between the two countries was growing in myriad dimensions. He highlighted the thrust of his diplomatic outreach as part of the prime minister’s direction that Pakistan must support all efforts aimed at avoiding conflict and resolving differences and disputes through political and diplomatic means. The Saudi foreign minister reaffirmed the strategic importance of Saudi-Pakistan relations and the resolve to deepen mutual cooperation in all fields.

Saudi FM welcomes Pakistan’s support for efforts to defuse tensions

In the regional context, the Saudi foreign minister welcomed the FM’s visit and Pakistan's support for efforts to defuse tensions in Gulf region, preserve peace and security, and help find a diplomatic way forward.

Appreciates role of PM Imran Khan

The two sides agreed to remain engaged and consult closely on issues affecting peace and security in the region and beyond. He also appreciated the role of Prime Minister Imran Khan.