Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister spoke with
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio by telephone on Saturday morning,
Azernews reports.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, they discussed the
current situation in South Asia following Indian attacks on
Pakistan and Pakistan’s response. The two leaders agreed to
maintain close contact.
Pakistani media reported on Saturday that Secretary of State
Marco Rubio also held a phone conversation with the Chief of Army
Staff (COAS), General Asim Munir. During the call, Rubio emphasized
the need for both Pakistan and India to take steps toward
de-escalation, according to a spokesperson for the US Department of
State. Rubio also offered US assistance in initiating constructive
talks to prevent future conflicts, the spokesperson said.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif appreciated
the diplomatic efforts of Saudi Arabia to de-escalate the situation
and promote peace in the region. He made these remarks while
speaking with the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Adel Al-Jubeir, who called on him in
Islamabad on Friday evening.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister strongly condemned
India’s missile and drone strikes against Pakistan, which resulted
in the martyrdom of numerous innocent civilians, including women
and children, as well as damage to civilian infrastructure.
He also paid tribute to the valiant Armed Forces of Pakistan for
their exemplary commitment and courage in defending the nation
against the enemy’s aggressive actions.
Prime Minister Sharif reaffirmed that Pakistan is fully
determined to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity in
accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter.