- By Supratik Das
- Sat, 03 May 2025 08:35 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Amid rising diplomatic tensions following the April 22 terror attack on Indian tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has made attempts to seek help from key Gulf nations to de-escalate the issue. Sharif met Saudi, Kuwaiti, and UAE ambassadors individually in Islamabad on Friday. India has blamed Pakistan for the attack in which 26 individuals died in Baisaran. Pakistan has denied the accusations and has urged an investigation into the case. Sharif reaffirmed that Pakistan had no role in the Pahalgam attack and stated, “We are committed to peace and stability in South Asia and are willing to join a transparent and neutral international investigation."
As per PMO statement, PM Shehbaz met with Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Maliki, UAE Ambassador Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi, and Kuwaiti Ambassador Nasser Abdulrahman Jasser Almutairi in Islamabad.
Ambassador of UAE to Pakistan H.E. Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.
— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) May 2, 2025
May 2, 2025. pic.twitter.com/c2KGCrKvbB
"He urged brotherly countries, including Saudi Arabia, to put pressure on India to reduce tensions in the region. He reiterated Pakistan’s desire for peace and stability in South Asia,” the PMO stated of his meeting with Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Maliki. The Saudi ambassador assured Pakistan of their willingness to advance peace and security within the region. "Saudi Arabia stands with Pakistan in ensuring regional stability," said the statement from Sharif's office.
Outreach To Other Allies
Shehbaz Sharif had reached out to Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani a day prior, briefing them on the regional scenario and Islamabad’s position. Both nations were urged to support efforts toward de-escalation.
Chinese Ambassador in Pakistan, H.E Jiang Zaidong calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad.
— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) May 2, 2025
May 1, 2025. pic.twitter.com/wmJlR2b0gk
On the other hand, Foreign Minister and Deputy PM Ishaq Dar also continued parallel diplomatic engagement. He spoke with Panama’s Foreign Minister Javier Eduardo Martinze-Acha Vasquez and Denmark’s Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen. Dar briefed them on India’s actions, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, which Pakistan calls a violation of international law. Both Panama and Denmark, non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, acknowledged the rising tensions and urged restraint on both sides. Dar and Rasmussen agreed to remain in close contact, especially on UNSC-related developments.