PM describes UNGA diplomacy, security talks as successful

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has described his diplomatic engagements on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) as a significant success, highlighting discussions with Iran as well as Saudi Arabia and Turkiye on regional security and the implementation of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement (MJDA). Speaking to The Express Tribune, the prime minister said his meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and trilateral discussions with Saudi Arabia and Turkiye were among the key engagements during his stay in New York. On August 7, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye formalised their longstanding strategic relationship through the newly signed Makkah pact, a trilateral security framework that its proponents describe as a defensive arrangement aimed at strengthening collective deterrence, enhancing military cooperation and promoting regional stability. The prime minister said the discussions on the sidelines of the UNGA focused on implementing the agreement and strengthening coordination among the three countries. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar separately met his Saudi and Turkish counterparts in New York to review progress on establishing the agreement's institutional structures, including its secretariat, committees and working groups. The three ministers also discussed regional and international security issues. The security discussions came amid heightened regional tensions, including the conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel and attacks targeting Saudi Arabia. Shehbaz also held a meeting with Pezeshkian, while Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi separately met with Pakistani officials. The discussions focused on regional developments and efforts to promote dialogue.