UN praises PM’s endeavours for Saudi-Iran rapprochement

ISLAMABAD: The United Nations has extended its support and endorsement for the peace mission of Pakistan under Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for a rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

Secretary General of the UN Ban Ki-moon on Friday made a phone call to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and had candid discussion with him about the situation in the Middle East and his efforts for reconciliation between the two countries. Sources in the PM House told The News that the secretary general of the world body ascertained the facts and development pertaining to the last month’s Pakistan’s reconciliatory efforts.

Nawaz Sharif and Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif undertook whirlwind visits of capitals of Saudi Arabia and Iran for the cause of peace. The UN secretary general was highly appreciative of Nawaz Sharif’s mission and maintained, “Prime Minister, you have good relations with both countries, Iran and Saudi Arabia, and you can play a vital and pivotal role in finding a solution to the problem. The leader that you are prime minister you can resolve that (issue).”

Nawaz briefed the secretary general about his visits to Iran and Saudi Arabia. It would be pertinent to mention that Pakistan was the first country and Nawaz Sharif was the first leader who opted to make the effort for reconciliation between Riyadh and Tehran. The idea floated by Pakistan to have focal persons of three capitals, Islamabad, Tehran and Riyadh, for restoration of communication was agreed to by Iran but Saudi Arabia has yet to offer its response on the concept.

The possibility of another dash by Prime Minister Nawaz and General Raheel cannot be ruled out as the situation could be conducive for such an attempt, the sources added.