PM Sharif condemns attacks on Azerbaijan, calls for de-escalation in talks with regional leaders

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned attacks against Azerbaijan and reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity during a telephone call with President Ilham Aliyev, the government said on Friday.

The two leaders exchanged Eid-ul-Fitr greetings and conveyed best wishes to each other and their nations. Sharif extended warm greetings to the people of Azerbaijan, while Aliyev reciprocated and expressed goodwill for Pakistan, also praying for unity among the Muslim Ummah.

During the conversation, Sharif strongly condemned recent attacks on Azerbaijan and reiterated Pakistan’s full support and solidarity with the country, according to an official statement.

The leaders also discussed the evolving situation in Iran and the Gulf region, expressing concern over rising tensions and emphasising the need for peace and stability.

Separately, Sharif held a telephone conversation with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, exchanging Eid greetings with him, his government and the people of Malaysia.

Both leaders underscored the importance of de-escalation in the Gulf region and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties between Pakistan and Malaysia.

According to a sources, Sharif also spoke with leaders of other friendly countries, including Uzbekistan, as part of a broader diplomatic outreach amid heightened tensions in the Middle East.

In these interactions, the Pakistani prime minister stressed the urgency of reducing tensions and avoiding further escalation, while reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and cooperation.

The calls come at a time of heightened instability in the Middle East following recent military escalations, which have raised concerns over energy security and broader geopolitical risks.