Ishaq Dar, Iran’s Foreign Minister Discuss Energy Security and Regional Stability
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has stressed the importance of maintaining uninterrupted energy supplies and ensuring the safe movement of commercial vessels amid growing concerns over regional maritime security.
Dar made the remarks during a telephone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Saturday, according to the Foreign Office (FO).
Pakistan, Iran Agree to Continue Close Cooperation
During the call, the two foreign ministers discussed regional developments and agreed to maintain close coordination on issues of mutual concern.
The Foreign Office said Dar and Araghchi also agreed to meet in New York on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Dar highlighted the importance of ensuring the safe and timely passage of ships, particularly because disruptions to maritime routes can affect developing economies and global supply chains.
He also emphasised that dialogue and diplomatic engagement remain important tools for promoting peace and stability in the region.
Pakistan Raises Concerns Over Attacks on Merchant Ships
The conversation took place shortly after Pakistan urged Yemen’s Houthi group to immediately stop attacks targeting merchant vessels and seafarers in the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
Speaking at a United Nations Security Council Arria-Formula meeting, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, called for the protection of freedom of navigation and the safety of commercial shipping.
Pakistan has expressed concern that attacks and disruptions along major maritime routes could have consequences beyond the region, affecting global peace, energy supplies and food security.
Bab al-Mandab and Strait of Hormuz Under Focus
According to the report, Yemen’s Houthis launched an offensive this month aimed at taking control of the country’s Red Sea coastline, including the strategically important Bab al-Mandab Strait.
The group has also announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia and targeted Saudi-linked shipping in the Red Sea, along with sites inside the kingdom.
During his UN address, Ambassador Ahmad said attacks on merchant vessels in Bab al-Mandab, along with disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, showed how maritime crises can create wider risks for international stability and global energy and food security.
Pakistan strongly criticised attacks on commercial shipping and expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia over the reported Houthi attacks.
Pakistan Calls for Maritime Security
Ambassador Ahmad said attacks on shipping could undermine maritime security and create additional challenges for regional peace and economic development.
Regarding the situation around the Strait of Hormuz, he said Pakistan remained deeply concerned about disruptions and attacks affecting commercial vessels.
Pakistan’s position, as outlined at the UN meeting and reflected in Dar’s conversation with the Iranian foreign minister, emphasises the importance of secure maritime routes, uninterrupted energy supplies and diplomatic efforts to address regional tensions.
