How Pakistan is actively wooing Iranian leaders to mediate with India

Ahead of Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi's visit to Islamabad, Pakistan is seemingly going all out to woo Tehran, repeatedly reiterating that it welcomed Iran's offer to mediate between India and Pakistan. The Shehbaz Sharif government's relentless bid to appease Tehran comes despite New Delhi ruling out the possibility of mediation by any third country.

 

On the eve of Araghchi's visit to Islamabad on Monday, the Pakistani ambassador to Tehran heaped praise on Araghchi for his visit to Islamabad, stating "the constructive and wise approach of Iranian leaders for de-escalation and diplomatic resolution of South Asian issues".   Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif too had welcomed Iran's stance that it was willing to mediate between India and Pakistan. This is when India chose not to respond to it. 

 

More Pakistani politicians too are publicly stressing how Iran can play a key role in the peace efforts. Sardar Fateh Ullah Khan Miankhel, chairman of the Standing Committee on Defense of the National Assembly of Pakistan, was one senior leader who conveyed his interest in Iran's overtures. 

 

Miankhel, in an exclusive interview with Iranian state media IRNA, said Araghchi's visit would be a significant step towards fostering peace in the region. "Unfortunately, the recent tensions in South Asia have once again strained relations between Pakistan and India. We are pleased that our close neighbour and brother, Iran, has expressed its willingness to assist in these matters," he said.  

 

He also stressed how Araghchi’s visit presents an opportunity for Pakistani leaders to discuss the situation in Afghanistan and the Middle East and most importantly India. "We are a peace-loving people, and we welcome initiatives from our Iranian brothers to help resolve differences," he added.  

 

These public statements of Pakistani leaders come despite India's lack of deep-rooted ties with Iran. Unlike the Gulf countries, including the UAE, which earlier had held mediations between the nations, Iran doesn't enjoy a close rapport with India in its internal matters. 

 

However, Araghchi maintained a neutral stance while talking to reporters before leaving for Islamabad. Araghchi said that the relations between Iran and Pakistan were of great importance, "just as Iran's relations with other countries in the region, including India, are also important."

"The situation in the region is very important for Iran, and while Tehran emphasises reducing tensions, the Islamic Republic calls on all parties to exercise restraint and prevent escalation," he added.

 

Middle East