ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday praised Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts in facilitating peace negotiations between the United States and Iran, terming the initiative a significant success in advancing regional stability.

During a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at Aiwan-e-Sadr, the president commended the government’s proactive role in hosting the high-level talks in Islamabad, which followed a two-week ceasefire brokered earlier this month.

The prime minister briefed the president on the progress made during the over 20-hour negotiations between the two sides, as well as Pakistan’s continued efforts to sustain dialogue despite the absence of a final agreement.

The discussions also covered the broader regional security and diplomatic landscape, with both leaders noting the far-reaching implications of the conflict for global stability and economic conditions.

President Zardari lauded the coordinated efforts of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Asim Munir, along with other state institutions, in facilitating the negotiations.

He said Pakistan’s role in bringing the two sides to the table reflects its longstanding commitment to promoting peace and dialogue, adding that the country has once again demonstrated its importance as a responsible and pivotal actor in global diplomacy.

The president emphasised the need for continued engagement with Washington, Tehran and key regional stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of the peace process.

Prime Minister Shehbaz also informed the president about his upcoming visits to Saudi Arabia and Turkiye, aimed at further strengthening diplomatic outreach and building support for ongoing peace efforts.

The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Senator Rana Sanaullah, while the president was assisted by senior Pakistan Peoples Party leaders including Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Sherry Rehman and Nayyar Bukhari.