Returning to peace ‘will benefit all’: Pakistan at UN

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Thursday said that the if the “military escalation and disruptions persists” due to the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, then the suffering will be prolonged and extended “far beyond the region, translating into widespread economic hardship.” 

“Return to peace on the other hand will benefit all,” Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, said. 

US President Donald Trump has said that a deal with Iran could be within reach, indicating that the next round of negotiations may take place as early as this weekend, with Islamabad remaining a key venue in the diplomatic process.

Meanwhile, Iran is "cautiously optimistic" about the outcome of negotiations with the United States to end the war, its ambassador to the United Nations said, while acknowledging deep mistrust toward Washington.

While speaking to the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Ambassador Iftikhar said the country’s “clear and unequivocal position” on the situation was clear as, Pakistan remained “deeply concerned at the developments over the past weeks in the region.”

The ambassador said that Pakistan prioritized de-escalation from the start and the Islamabad Talks were made possible because of the country’s outreach efforts. 

“Through the ‘Islamabad Process,’ Pakistan is pursuing the objective of ending the war and ensuring long-term peace,” the ambassador said.

While calling for the security of ships and civilians passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the ambassador said that the situation was adversely impacting countries with consequences for regional and global economy becoming “evidently harsh.”

“If the military escalation and disruptions persist, the suffering will prolong and extend far beyond the region, translating into widespread economic hardship,” he said.

“Pakistan remains committed to continue playing its constructive role in promoting dialogue, fostering understanding, and supporting all efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region,” he added.