Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has clarified that Iran’s ballistic missile programme was never included in the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Iran and the United States. The statement was made during a delegation-level meeting held in Islamabad alongside Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian.
Speaking during the meeting, the prime minister emphasized that the agreement aimed at reducing tensions in the Middle East did not include any discussion or reference to Iran’s missile programme. He stated that the matter was never placed on the negotiation agenda and was not part of the understanding reached between Tehran and Washington.
Shehbaz Sharif stressed that there should be no misunderstanding regarding the contents of the Islamabad MoU. According to the prime minister, the agreement focused on promoting peace, dialogue, and regional stability rather than addressing military or defense capabilities.
The prime minister also called for equal treatment of all countries regarding ballistic missile capabilities. He stated that there should be no double standards, adding that Iran has the same right as other nations to possess ballistic missiles for its national defense.
The remarks came during Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s official visit to Pakistan, where both leaders discussed bilateral relations, regional peace, economic cooperation, and diplomatic engagement. The visit highlighted the strong historical ties between Pakistan and Iran and reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s support for peaceful dialogue and diplomatic solutions to regional conflicts. He also emphasized Pakistan’s role in facilitating discussions aimed at promoting stability and reducing tensions in the Middle East.
President Pezeshkian welcomed Pakistan’s continued support and appreciated Islamabad’s efforts in promoting regional peace. Both leaders expressed confidence that enhanced cooperation between Pakistan and Iran would contribute to greater regional prosperity, security, and long-term stability.
The clarification regarding the Islamabad MoU is expected to remove speculation surrounding the agreement and reaffirm Pakistan’s position as a neutral facilitator of peace and diplomatic engagement.
