LAHORE, Wednesday, February 4, 2026 (WNP): Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, on Wednesday held high-level meetings with Pakistan Muslim League–Nawaz (PML-N) President Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, focusing on evolving regional security dynamics and the future direction of Iran–Pakistan relations.

During the meetings, the Iranian ambassador and the Pakistani leadership exchanged views on recent regional developments, particularly what they described as interventionist positions, threats, and escalatory rhetoric by the United States and Israel. Both sides underscored the need for restraint and dialogue to prevent further destabilization in an already volatile region.

Ambassador Moghadam reiterated Iran’s firm commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties with Pakistan, describing the two countries as “brotherly nations” bound by history, geography, faith, and shared regional interests.

He expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s principled stance and continued support for Iran at various international and regional forums.

The ambassador also acknowledged the efforts of the Government of Pakistan in promoting comprehensive bilateral cooperation, particularly highlighting the role of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar in advancing political, economic, and strategic engagement between the two neighbors.

While emphasizing Iran’s readiness to defend its sovereignty against any potential adventurism, Ambassador Moghadam stressed Tehran’s commitment to pursuing fair, equitable, and constructive negotiations to resolve outstanding issues. He said Iran remains dedicated to dialogue based on mutual respect, adherence to international norms, and peaceful dispute resolution.

“Iran and Pakistan are like two bodies and one soul,” the ambassador remarked, noting that both nations have consistently demonstrated solidarity and brotherhood through historical challenges and changing regional circumstances.

Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, while referring to the close monitoring of developments in Iran and the wider region, expressed concern over recent tensions and potential threats to peace. He emphasized that lasting stability can only be achieved through constructive negotiations conducted in good faith, grounded in equality, mutual respect, and international law.

Nawaz Sharif underscored that dialogue and diplomacy—alongside the protection of national sovereignty and the rejection of threats or the use of force—remain the most effective path toward peace, stability, and prosperity across the region. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for diplomatic solutions in line with the United Nations Charter and international principles.

The meetings reflected a shared resolve by Iran and Pakistan to deepen bilateral cooperation while jointly advocating diplomacy and restraint to address regional challenges, reinforcing their long-standing partnership amid shifting geopolitical realities.