Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held a telephonic conversation with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan this evening. Expressing his deep concern over the escalating crisis in the Middle East, the Prime Minister condemned the Israeli attack on Iran, and subsequent regrettable attacks on other brotherly Gulf countries. The Prime Minister apprised the Turkish President of his recent outreach to the leadership of the brotherly Gulf countries, reaffirming Pakistan's full solidarity with them.

According to Radio Pakistan, Prime Minister Sharif stated that Pakistan is ready to play a constructive role in efforts aimed at resolving the crisis. Both leaders emphasized the importance of maximum restraint by all parties to prevent further escalation. The Prime Minister also updated President Erdogan on the recent developments concerning Afghanistan. The two leaders agreed to maintain close and frequent contact to continue their efforts towards bringing peace and stability to the region.