Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has voiced his willingness to engage in peace talks with India to resolve long-standing issues, including Kashmir, terrorism, water disputes, and trade.
Speaking in Tehran during the second leg of his four-nation diplomatic tour, Sharif extended an invitation for dialogue, stressing the importance of peaceful negotiations.
During a joint press conference with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s stance on defending its territory but emphasised that his government prefers diplomacy over conflict. “We want to resolve all disputes through negotiations and are ready to talk to our neighbour on trade and counter-terrorism,” Sharif stated.
This statement comes in the aftermath of a four-day military escalation between the two countries following the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which claimed 26 lives. India’s precision strikes under Operation Sindoor targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, prompting retaliatory actions by the Pakistani forces. The hostilities ceased after military officials on both sides agreed to stop direct military action.
While India has maintained that discussions with Pakistan will only take place regarding Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and terrorism, Sharif remains hopeful that dialogue can pave the way for a more stable South Asia. His diplomatic engagements with Iran signal Pakistan’s broader strategy of strengthening regional ties.
Sharif’s remarks have sparked international attention, with analysts closely watching for India’s response. As tensions simmer, the potential for constructive peace talks remains uncertain but increasingly vital in shaping future geopolitical dynamics.
