ISLAMABAD: As Pakistan prepares to host high-stakes Iran–US peace talks in Islamabad on Saturday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has received a wave of support and congratulatory messages from world leaders, praising Islamabad’s role in facilitating a fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni held a telephone conversation with PM Shehbaz, commending Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts that helped secure the ceasefire and restart dialogue between the two sides. The premier also welcomed a joint statement by key European leaders backing Pakistan’s peace initiative.

In Europe, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed support for Pakistan’s mediation, with PM Shehbaz appreciating Berlin’s role in encouraging dialogue. Similarly, Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker reiterated strong endorsement of Pakistan’s efforts during a “warm and cordial” exchange, with both leaders agreeing on the need to sustain the ceasefire for long-term stability.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also backed Pakistan’s diplomatic push, as Islamabad reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the United Kingdom and other partners to achieve lasting peace.

Support also came from French President Emmanuel Macron, who lauded what he termed “Islamabad Diplomacy.”

President Macron graciously congratulated Pakistan on its sincere efforts in facilitating the ceasefire between Iran and the United States, and for helping bring both sides to the negotiating table.

Outreach extended across the Middle East as well. Qatar’s Amir, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, congratulated PM Shehbaz on Pakistan’s mediation role. The premier praised Qatar’s “wisdom and restraint” during weeks of regional tensions and reaffirmed solidarity, emphasizing joint efforts toward peace.

In a separate development, PM Shehbaz spoke with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, strongly condemning ongoing Israeli attacks in Lebanon and expressing condolences over civilian casualties. Both leaders stressed the importance of continued diplomatic engagement to end the violence.

Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan voiced strong backing for Pakistan’s role in de-escalation efforts.

The flurry of diplomatic engagement comes at a critical moment, as Pakistan positions itself at the center of international diplomacy, with US and Iranian delegations expected to arrive in Islamabad on Friday.

Islamabad talks

Global leaders back Pakistan as Islamabad hosts Iran–US peace talks