Business Recorder
ISLAMABAD: Members from both the treasury and opposition benches in the National Assembly on Wednesday jointly lauded Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts that contributed to a ceasefire in the Middle East conflict, particularly in easing tensions between the United States and Iran. Members of the National Assembly appreciated the diplomatic efforts of Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Field Marshal Gen Asim Munir, and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar. While speaking on the floor of the National Assembly, Khawaja Muhammad Asif said that Pakistan has gained a diplomatic advantage following its success against India in the defence arena, adding that the country’s global prestige and respect have significantly increased. He said Pakistan’s leadership had demonstrated wisdom and foresight, helping the world step back from the brink of conflict. He praised the role of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, stating that their political and military leadership is being widely appreciated across the globe. He said that Pakistan’s role in easing tensions, particularly in the context of the Iran–United States situation, has been acknowledged internationally, with countries including members of the European Union and Muslim nations commending Pakistan’s efforts. Khawaja Asif claimed that Pakistan had previously defeated a much larger adversary and continues to see a rise in its global stature. He described the current moment as one of the most significant in the country’s 78-year history, with unprecedented levels of recognition and respect. He emphasized that Pakistan’s diplomatic success against India is a major achievement and a legacy for future generations. He added that even within India, there is acknowledgment of Pakistan’s superiority in both military and diplomatic domains. The Defence Minister also highlighted internal and regional challenges, including ongoing tensions with militant groups such as the Taliban, stating that Pakistan’s armed forces are making sacrifices and effectively countering threats. Referring to the broader region, he said Pakistan aims to play a constructive role in promoting peace among countries in the Gulf, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Oman, alongside Iran. He reiterated that the Muslim world must recognize both India and Israel as long-standing adversaries, while expressing hope that peace efforts would succeed. He added that Pakistan has the potential to play a leadership role in the Muslim world in countering global challenges. Khawaja Asif acknowledged economic difficulties facing the country, including inflation and financial constraints, but expressed optimism that the current trajectory would open new opportunities for Pakistan in the future. Concluding his remarks, he congratulated the nation and its leadership, expressing hope that Pakistan would continue to gain respect and prominence in the international community. Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar described the day as one of the most significant in Pakistan’s history, saying it marked the successful diplomatic effort that helped secure a ceasefire between Iran and the United States amid rising regional tensions. Speaking on the floor of the House, he said the nation should be grateful to Allah for granting Pakistan, its leadership, and its people this achievement, expressing hope that the country would continue to play a positive role in promoting peace globally and keep its flag high in a peaceful world. He said that just a day earlier, the situation had been highly tense as regional developments escalated, but active Pakistani diplomacy helped de-escalate the crisis and bring the situation under control. The Law Minister credited Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for their continuous efforts, saying their coordination played a key role in achieving the ceasefire and drawing global attention to Pakistan’s diplomatic role. He also congratulated the nation, President Asif Ali Zardari, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Nawaz Sharif, and coalition partners, acknowledging their collective support in keeping focus on diplomatic engagement. Azam Nazeer Tarar praised all political parties, including the opposition, for showing unity on the issue, saying the entire nation had spoken with one voice in favour of peace. He stressed that peace remained the only viable path for the region and the world, especially amid rising global tensions. He added that the Prime Minister would also brief the National Assembly today (Thursday) on the matter. Calling for continued unity, he urged political forces to set aside differences and send a clear message that Pakistan stands for peace and stability, noting that the world is closely watching the country’s conduct. He also requested opposition parties to reconsider protest plans, saying national unity was essential at this moment, as international attention is focused on Pakistan and “when guests arrive, the entire household comes together to welcome them.” Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Mehmood Khan Achakzai extended “unconditional support” to the government in its efforts for peace in the Middle East. Responding to Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar’s speech, in which he requested the opposition to defer its protest planned for Thursday, Achakzai said that in his speech on Tuesday, he had called for former premier Nawaz Sharif, President Asif Ali Zardari, and Imran Khan to sit together in the current situation and move the country forward. He said that all policies should be formed in Parliament. “The Parliament should be the centre of all policies of the country,” he said. Ali Muhammad Khan said the people of Pakistan stand united with Iran and Saudi Arabia. He emphasized that Pakistan seeks to promote unity among Muslim countries. Federal Minister for Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh said that US President Donald Trump should propose the names of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed AsimMunir for the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of their efforts to help secure a ceasefire involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. He stated that Pakistan currently enjoys a unique diplomatic position, maintaining relations with major global and regional players including the United States, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Turkey, and other key Muslim countries, which, he said, contributed to the country being respected in ceasefire efforts. He further expressed optimism that the lifting of international sanctions on Iran would bring economic benefits for Pakistan across multiple sectors, as seen in other countries. Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh added that Pakistan is likely to see significant investment opportunities in the coming period, which would help improve employment, technology, and industrial growth across the country. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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