Gulf tension carries implications for peace, economy: Qureshi

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Wednesday emphasised the importance of maximum restraint and steps for de-escalation by all sides in the Middle East.

During his telephonic conversation with British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, he said situation in Gulf region carries serious implications for peace and security as well as world economy.

He also apprised the British foreign secretary about evolving security situation in the region and shared Pakistan’s concerns with regard to the latest developments in the Middle East. Qureshi told Raab about Pakistan’s efforts to defuse tensions in the region through active diplomatic engagement with relevant parties.

The foreign minister also highlighted grave human rights and humanitarian situation in Indian occupied Kashmir and urged UK to play its role for peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.

Qureshi also briefed his British counterpart on Pakistan’s efforts for peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan. He invited Raab to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience. The British foreign secretary appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to support defusing tensions and securing peace and security in the region. He also highlighted the positive trajectory of Pak-UK relations and expressed hope that these will continue to strengthen in the years ahead.

Both Qureshi and Raab agreed to continue to work together to strengthen bilateral cooperation and to ensure peace and security in the region.