Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif continued intensive shuttle diplomacy this week, visiting Qatar and Turkey as part of efforts to keep U.S.-Iran negotiations moving forward.
Sharif met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Wednesday to brief him on Pakistan's mediation efforts. Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir traveled to Iran earlier in the week for direct engagement with Iranian leadership.
Pakistan has emerged as the primary diplomatic channel between Washington and Tehran, having mediated the April 8 two-week ceasefire that expires April 22. Both sides are reportedly considering an extension.
Pakistani foreign ministry spokesman Tahir Andrabi said Pakistan is being recognized for its ‘constructive diplomatic engagement in supporting de-escalation.’