Islamabad: European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas on Monday praised Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts in mediating between the United States and Iran, saying Islamabad played a role in preventing a wider regional war.
Addressing a joint press conference alongside Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar after the 8th EU-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue in Islamabad, Kallas said Pakistan’s engagement had helped avert a return to full-scale conflict on multiple occasions.
She said these efforts were widely recognised in Europe and credited Pakistan with contributing to a fragile but important diplomatic opening in the region.
According to Kallas, Pakistan played a key mediating role after tensions escalated following US and Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this year, followed by retaliatory actions and disruptions in regional maritime routes. She said Islamabad later facilitated a temporary ceasefire and supported backchannel diplomacy between Washington and Tehran.
She added that while a short-term understanding had helped reduce tensions, lasting stability would require broader negotiations, including on Iran’s nuclear programme and other strategic issues.
Kallas said the European Union was prepared to contribute to a long-term solution through economic tools, diplomatic engagement and regional cooperation, adding that the EU maintains relationships across the Gulf and direct channels with Iran.
Describing Pakistan as a “major regional power,” she said the country is an important partner for the European Union and noted that both sides had reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties during the strategic dialogue.
She said the EU remains Pakistan’s largest export destination and the biggest beneficiary of the GSP+ trade preferences scheme, which grants tariff concessions in exchange for progress on governance, labour rights and environmental standards.
Kallas also said future cooperation could expand into areas such as climate resilience, digital infrastructure, migration, mobility and economic development.
On regional security, she referred to tensions involving Pakistan and Afghanistan, calling for restraint and de-escalation, while stating that dialogue remains the best path forward.
She also acknowledged Pakistan’s right to self-defence in accordance with international law.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar welcomed the EU delegation and said both sides had maintained close engagement on regional and global developments, including conflicts involving neighbouring countries.
He said the strategic dialogue provides a framework to deepen political understanding and expand cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, investment and security.
Dar highlighted counterterrorism cooperation and regional security concerns, while reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its long-term partnership with the European Union.
Both sides agreed to continue high-level engagement and hold the next round of the strategic dialogue in Brussels next year.