Pakistan, Russian top officials discuss ties, Iran-US tensions

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Friday, discussing bilateral relations and regional developments, the foreign office said.

The two leaders exchanged views on cooperation at multilateral forums and efforts to support international peace and security, according to an official statement.

Lavrov appreciated Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue between Iran and the United States, the statement said, as Islamabad continues to position itself as a mediator amid heightened tensions between the two sides.

Dar reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to promoting dialogue and diplomacy to resolve regional and global issues.

The two ministers also discussed high-level engagements, including the rescheduling of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s planned visit to Russia at a mutually convenient date.

Dar extended an invitation to Lavrov to visit Pakistan, the statement said.

Both sides agreed to maintain regular contact on matters of mutual interest.