Pakistan, Malaysia Reaffirm Commitment to Diplomacy Amid Rising Regional Tensions
Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Wednesday held a telephone conversation with Malaysia’s Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan, reaffirming their shared commitment to diplomacy as regional tensions continue to rise.
According to a news release issued by the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, the two leaders reviewed recent regional and international developments of mutual concern. They emphasized the importance of de-escalation through dialogue and diplomatic engagement, while vowing to maintain close coordination on pressing geopolitical issues.
The conversation comes in the wake of Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim publicly welcoming Pakistan’s offer to facilitate dialogue between the United States and Iran, terming the initiative “timely and constructive” in a message posted on X.
In his statement, Anwar Ibrahim commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other international leaders for stepping forward “at a moment of acute regional danger.” He also acknowledged earlier mediation efforts by Oman and other partners aimed at easing tensions.
The Malaysian premier noted that Pakistan’s strong relations with key stakeholders, along with its influential position in the Muslim world, place it in a favorable position to help create conditions conducive to meaningful negotiations between Washington and Tehran.
“Malaysia supports this initiative and encourages, in particular, the United States and Iran to respond in the spirit in which it was offered,” Anwar stated, adding that there remains “some space for diplomacy” that must be utilized with urgency and seriousness.
He stressed that any negotiations should pursue a genuine and lasting resolution rather than temporary pauses in conflict, cautioning against ceasefires that serve only tactical purposes.
Reiterating Malaysia’s stance on international law, Anwar affirmed Iran’s right to defend its sovereignty while calling on all parties to exercise restraint. He expressed concern over continued Israeli strikes in Iran and Lebanon, warning that further escalation could draw in Gulf states and destabilize the wider region.
Highlighting the importance of consistency and accountability, Anwar said the credibility of the rules-based international order depends on equal application of international norms.
The Malaysian prime minister also revealed that he has been in contact with leaders from the Gulf Cooperation Council, Türkiye, Egypt, Indonesia, Japan, Pakistan, and other partners to advocate for de-escalation and peaceful resolution of the crisis.
“Malaysia will continue to support every credible effort towards a just and lasting peace,” he concluded.
