Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and European Council President Antonio Costa held a telephonic conversation, expressing deep concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East. Both leaders emphasized diplomacy as the key to restoring regional stability.
During the call, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and European Council President Antonio Costa exchanged views on the ongoing hostilities in the Middle East, particularly in Iran and Gulf countries.
Both leaders expressed strong concern over the situation and its far-reaching impact on the global economy. They stressed that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path to resolving the crisis.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif received a telephone call from the President of the European Council, H.E. Antonio Costa.
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) March 30, 2026
During their warm and cordial conversation, the Prime Minister shared with the EU Council President the latest developments in Pakistan’s mediation… pic.twitter.com/NBQyn2DRoE
EU backs Pakistan’s mediation efforts
PM Sharif briefed Costa on the latest developments regarding Pakistan’s mediation efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions in the region.
The European Council president endorsed Pakistan’s peace initiatives and reaffirmed that the European Union supports all diplomatic efforts to restore stability.
Costa reiterated that the EU stands firmly behind initiatives promoting peace and regional security.
Received a telephone call from H.E. António Costa, President of the European Council, this afternoon.
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) March 30, 2026
We exchanged views on the ongoing hostilities in the Middle East and agreed that dialogue and diplomacy must prevail in order to restore regional peace and stability.
I…
The conversation also covered broader Pakistan-European Union relations, with both sides highlighting the importance of continued cooperation. PM Sharif emphasized that Pakistan attaches high significance to its ties with the EU, underlining their strategic importance.
He also recalled that his scheduled visit to Brussels last month had to be postponed.
Business forum and upcoming engagements
The prime minister shared plans to inaugurate the first-ever Pakistan-EU Business Forum in Islamabad on April 28 and 29. He highlighted the importance of the GSP Plus status and expressed optimism about further strengthening economic collaboration between Pakistan and the EU.
Antonio Costa said he looks forward to welcoming the PM to Brussels on mutually agreed dates.
During the conversation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also conveyed his best wishes to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The call was described as warm and cordial, reflecting strong diplomatic engagement between Pakistan and the European Union.
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