Islamabad, May 25 (H.S.): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to undertake a six-day diplomatic tour starting Sunday, visiting Turkiye, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan. This visit comes in the wake of heightened tensions with India, as Pakistan seeks to strengthen regional relations. The Foreign Office announced that the prime minister will engage in discussions with the leadership of these nations on various bilateral, regional, and international issues, primarily to express gratitude for their support during the conflict with India. The tour will commence in Turkiye and conclude in Tajikistan, where Shehbaz will attend the International Conference on Glaciers in Dushanbe on May 29-30. His visit aims to enhance diplomatic and economic ties and promote mutual cooperation for regional peace.
In related news, PM Shehbaz met with Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Chairman of the PPP, to formulate Pakistan’s diplomatic strategy concerning India’s recent aggressions. Bilawal is expected to lead a high-level delegation to international forums, addressing issues such as India’s hostile actions and Indus Waters Treaty violations. Accompanied by key political figures, Bilawal expressed his commitment to effectively communicate Pakistan’s position, with Shehbaz expressing confidence in his leadership during this pivotal moment.
Under the leadership of a high-powered delegation, Pakistan aims to present its stance and narrative effectively to the world, amidst rising tensions in the region. Key participants in this delegation include Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Minister Musadik Malik, and several influential political figures such as former Foreign Minister Khurram Dastgir Khan. The delegation plans to visit London, Washington, and Brussels to highlight Pakistan’s contributions towards regional stability and counter India’s narrative, particularly following the recent military escalations.
This initiative arises after Pakistan’s retaliatory Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos launched on May 10, 2025, in response to Indian missile strikes that targeted Pakistani bases and civilians. The operation showcased Pakistan’s military might, taking aim at critical Indian installations and asserting its defense capabilities, including successfully downing five Indian fighter jets, among them a Rafale.
Following the intense exchanges, international calls for de-escalation prompted a ceasefire facilitated by U.S. President Donald Trump. This agreement emphasizes the need for continued dialogue on pressing issues like Kashmir. Meanwhile, India has designated Shashi Tharoor to lead its own delegation in promoting New Delhi’s position globally.
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
