Pakistan, Iran foreign ministers discuss regional tensions and diplomacy
By The South Asia Times
ISLAMABAD - Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar spoke by telephone with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, discussed regional developments and the ongoing meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation’s (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers in Baghdad.
During the conversation, Dar stressed the importance of continued dialogue and diplomacy to address regional challenges, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The two ministers agreed to remain in close contact.
The call comes amid regional security concerns and tensions affecting relations between Iran and its neighbours.
Pakistan has imposed restrictions on cross-border trade with Iran, with Pakistani officials describing the measures as temporary and linked to border management and security concerns. The restrictions add to wider regional pressures as Islamabad also manages strained relations with Afghanistan and India.
The wider regional environment is further complicated by tensions involving Iran and Saudi Arabia. Iranian-backed Yemen’s Houthi terrorists, which have received Iranian support, have carried out attacks against Saudi Arabia since last month, including missile and drone strikes.
Iran’s support for the Houthis has been a longstanding source of concern for Saudi Arabia, which has accused the terrorist group of threatening its territory and regional security.
Pakistan and Iran share a border spanning Balochistan and Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province. Security incidents and concerns about militant activity have periodically strained ties between the two countries, despite ongoing diplomatic engagement.
Dar’s call with Araghchi underscores Islamabad’s emphasis on dialogue as regional governments navigate overlapping security and diplomatic challenges.
