ISLAMABAD – In the wake of a recent ceasefire with India following a brief military flare-up, Pakistan is stepping up diplomatic efforts to counter Indian narratives and reaffirm its stance on the global stage.
The Foreign Office announced that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will embark on a regional tour from May 25 to 30, visiting Turkiye, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan. The trip aims to strengthen bilateral ties and thank these countries for their support during Pakistan’s latest standoff with India.
The tour follows a US-mediated ceasefire implemented two weeks ago. Notably, Iran’s foreign minister had acted as an intermediary between Pakistan and India during the confrontation.
During his visits, PM Shehbaz is scheduled to hold extensive discussions with the leadership of the four nations, focusing on regional cooperation, international affairs, and Pakistan’s strategic partnerships. According to the Foreign Office, the prime minister will use the opportunity to formally express gratitude for the solidarity shown by these countries during the recent tensions.
In addition to his bilateral meetings, PM Shehbaz will participate in the International Conference on Glaciers in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on May 29-30.
Meanwhile, in a parallel diplomatic move, the prime minister has tasked a senior-level delegation with visiting key Western capitals to challenge what Pakistan views as an Indian disinformation campaign.
State broadcaster Radio Pakistan reported that PM Shehbaz had a phone call with Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, appointing him to lead the delegation. Members of the team include Dr. Musadik Malik, Engineer Khurram Dastgir, Senator Sherry Rehman, Hina Rabbani Khar, Faisal Subzwari, Tehmina Janjua, and Jalil Abbas Jilani.
Their itinerary includes visits to London, Washington, Paris, and Brussels, where they will engage with international stakeholders to counter India’s narrative and advocate for regional stability.
On Friday, Chairman Bhutto-Zardari met with PM Shehbaz to discuss the diplomatic mission and receive strategic guidance. Senator Sherry Rehman and former foreign minister Hina Rabbani Khar accompanied him.
Expressing his appreciation, Bhutto-Zardari thanked the prime minister for entrusting him with this critical responsibility. PM Shehbaz expressed confidence in the delegation’s ability to effectively communicate Pakistan’s perspective to the global community.
The meeting was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Climate Change Minister Musadik Malik, Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah, and Special Assistant to the PM Tariq Fatemi.
