ISLAMABAD, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday welcomed the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the United States and Iran, describing it as a historic milestone for regional and global peace.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Thursday that an MoU between the United States and Iran has been electronically signed by the leaders of both countries and has entered into force with immediate effect.
In a statement issued by the President's House, Zardari said the conflict had caused immense human suffering across the region and severely disrupted global energy supplies, trade and economic stability.
He expressed the hope that such a tragedy would never be repeated and that countries in the region would now focus their efforts on development, prosperity and improving the well-being of their people.
Zardari said Pakistan had maintained a principled, balanced and constructive approach throughout the crisis by consistently advocating dialogue, restraint and the peaceful settlement of disputes while remaining engaged with all parties involved.
He also appreciated the efforts by U.S. and Iranian leaders for pursuing a diplomatic resolution to the conflict.
The president acknowledged the support of China, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt, and Russia, saying their efforts to encourage dialogue had contributed to advancing peace.
Calling for the full implementation of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, Zardari urged all parties to work toward reaching a final agreement within the stipulated timeframe to ensure durable peace and stability.
"Heroes are those who have ended the war, not those who are eager to start one," the president said.
"War brings nothing but destruction and misery. Peace is the only path to progress," Zardari said, adding that Pakistan would continue to stand in solidarity with regional countries in promoting peace, stability and shared prosperity. ■
