ISLAMABAD, Thursday, June 18, 2026 (WNP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday announced that the historic Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (Islamabad MoU) had been electronically signed between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran, describing it as a landmark diplomatic achievement and a major step toward lasting peace, regional stability and international cooperation.
In a statement, the prime minister said the Islamabad MoU had been signed by United States President Donald J. Trump and Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, while he signed the agreement in his capacity as the mediator, marking the successful culmination of months of sustained diplomatic engagement.
“I am honoured to announce that the historic Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding has been electronically signed today between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran,” the prime minister said.
He said the signing of the agreement by the heads of state of both countries, together with his endorsement as mediator, reflected the commitment of all parties to resolving the conflict through dialogue, diplomacy and peaceful engagement.
The prime minister said the agreement would enter into force with immediate effect. Under its initial implementation, the Islamic Republic of Iran would immediately reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while the United States would simultaneously lift the naval blockade, paving the way for the restoration of maritime trade and regional stability.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt congratulations to United States President Donald J. Trump, commending his steadfast commitment to diplomacy and his preference for a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
He also acknowledged the efforts of the United States negotiating team, including Vice President J.D. Vance, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, for their invaluable contributions to the successful conclusion of the negotiations.
The prime minister expressed profound appreciation to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, and President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, praising their wisdom, foresight and statesmanship in embracing the cause of peace.
He also recognized the efforts of the Iranian negotiating team, including Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, saying their patience, perseverance and constructive engagement had been instrumental in bringing the agreement to fruition.
Prime Minister Shehbaz also acknowledged the constructive role played by regional partners in facilitating the peace process.
He expressed special appreciation to the leadership of the State of Qatar for its sincere efforts and constructive engagement, while also commending the leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Republic of Türkiye and the Arab Republic of Egypt for their indispensable support and valuable contributions throughout the mediation process.
Paying tribute to Pakistan’s military leadership, the prime minister made special mention of Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, saying his tireless efforts, selfless dedication and instrumental role had been critical in facilitating the diplomatic breakthrough and advancing the cause of peace and regional stability.
Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed hope that the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding would serve as an enduring foundation for greater understanding, mutual respect, regional cooperation and shared prosperity, while reinforcing confidence in diplomacy as the most effective means of resolving international disputes.
He said the successful conclusion of the agreement reflected the triumph of dialogue over conflict and reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to promoting peace, diplomacy and stability at both the regional and global levels.
