The international community has welcomed a landmark two-week ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, with formal peace talks scheduled to begin in Islamabad on Friday. Pakistan has received widespread recognition for its key diplomatic role in facilitating the truce.
The ceasefire, announced by the US President Donald Trump, includes the reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a maritime route that carries nearly one-fifth of global oil supplies. The move is being seen as a critical step toward easing regional tensions and stabilising global energy markets.
Global Support for Ceasefire
Countries across the world have urged all parties to fully commit to the ceasefire and use the opportunity to pursue lasting peace through dialogue.
The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the truce as a “very important opportunity” to prioritise diplomacy and constructive engagement. In an official statement, Egypt stressed the importance of halting military operations and ensuring freedom of international navigation, while also highlighting continued coordination with Pakistan and Türkiye to promote regional stability.
Similarly, the Omani Foreign Ministry welcomed the agreement and appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in pushing for an end to hostilities. Oman emphasised the need for intensified diplomatic initiatives to address the root causes of the crisis.
UN and World Leaders Call for Lasting Peace
António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, urged all sides to adhere strictly to the ceasefire terms, stressing the urgent need to protect civilian lives and reduce human suffering. He also acknowledged Pakistan’s role in facilitating the agreement.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz praised the ceasefire and thanked Pakistan for its mediation, expressing hope that upcoming negotiations would lead to a “lasting end to war.”
From Europe, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, described the agreement as a “much-needed de-escalation” and emphasised the importance of continued negotiations for a sustainable resolution.
Pakistan’s Diplomatic Role Widely Acknowledged
Pakistan’s leadership has been widely credited for enabling dialogue between the two sides. According to statements from Kazakhstan, the ceasefire was achieved through mediation efforts led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir.
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev praised Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement, while Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim commended what he described as “tireless and courageous diplomacy.”
Australia’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Timothy Kane, also congratulated Pakistan, noting its “effective diplomacy” in helping bring the ceasefire to fruition.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s efforts, alongside contributions from Türkiye and Egypt.
Meanwhile, the United Kingdom’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, highlighted Pakistan’s “quiet and effective diplomatic role” in facilitating the agreement.
Portugal also welcomed the development, thanking Pakistan and other partners involved in the negotiations for their contributions to peace efforts.
Strategic Importance of Talks in Islamabad
The upcoming negotiations in Islamabad are expected to focus on securing a long-term peace agreement between Washington and Tehran, addressing broader regional security concerns, and ensuring stability in global energy supply routes.
Diplomatic observers note that Pakistan’s role as a neutral facilitator has enhanced its standing on the global stage, positioning Islamabad as a key player in international conflict resolution.
