ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has arrived in Iranian city of Mashhad as part of Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to diffuse tensions in the Middle East.
On his arrival, Governor Mashhad General Khurasan-Razavi warmly welcomed him. Qureshi visited the shrine of Imam Reza (R.A) shrine and offered special prayers for the security of Pakistan and the unity and solidarity of the Muslim Ummah.
Speaking on the occasion, the foreign minister said it is an honour for him to begin his visit by visiting this holy site. He thanked Governor Mashhad for making best arrangements for three million Pakistani pilgrims who visit the place annually.
The foreign minister is paying this visit on the special directives of Prime Minister Imran Khan. He is scheduled to visit Tehran to meet his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif to exchange views on the prevailing situation in the region.
Qureshi will also visit Riyadh tomorrow to hold talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud and consult on the issues of regional peace and stability.
Meanwhile. Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan says visit of Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi to Iran and Saudi Arabia is evidence of Pakistan’s sincere efforts in resolving conflicts and reducing tension peacefully.
In a series of tweets on Sunday, she said it is an honour for Pakistan to play a vibrant role in the interest of the Muslim Ummah and peace in the region which is being acknowledged by Islamic countries and the Western world.
She said this is a bright role of Pakistan under the leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan and is changing Pakistan’s global identity.
Arrived in Mashad, Iran commencing my trip to build better understanding & peace in the region. Honoured to pay my respects at the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza (A.S), descendant of Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) as my first stop where I prayed for Muslim unity & regional stability. pic.twitter.com/LYs7KOEzAj
— Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) January 12, 2020
