PM Shehbaz, Iranian President Discuss Regional Developments

News Desk 

Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday held a telephone conversation with Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the evolving regional situation and matters of mutual interest.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the two leaders exchanged views on key regional developments and emphasized the need for sustained dialogue and diplomatic engagement to promote peace, security, and development in the region.

Prime Minister Shehbaz underscored the importance of continued communication and cooperation, noting that diplomacy remains the most effective means to address regional challenges.

Reflecting the close and fraternal ties between Pakistan and Iran—anchored in shared history, culture, and faith—the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining regular high-level contacts and consultations through established bilateral mechanisms.

They expressed confidence that enhanced interaction and cooperation would further strengthen bilateral relations across political, economic, and regional domains.

PIA to Reach New Heights Under Arif Habib Consortium: PM Shehbaz

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday expressed confidence that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) would reach new heights under the leadership of the Arif Habib Consortium following the signing of transaction documents for the airline’s privatization.

Addressing the signing ceremony in Islamabad, the prime minister congratulated the nation on what he termed a landmark step in the privatization process, saying it would significantly improve PIA’s performance, punctuality, cabin service, and professional standards.

He praised Arif Habib and his team as distinguished business leaders and ambassadors of Pakistan, acknowledging their contribution to the country’s economic progress. The prime minister said passenger comfort and safety would be the top priority of the new management.

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Recalling PIA’s golden era in the 1960s, Prime Minister Shehbaz said the airline was once a globally recognized brand and expressed optimism that the new owners would restore its past glory through innovation and dedicated efforts.

He appreciated the role of federal ministers, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and Advisor for Privatization Muhammad Ali for their commitment to the national interest and the successful completion of the privatization process.

The prime minister noted that the privatization proceedings were conducted transparently and broadcast live. He said the bidding concluded at Rs180 billion, of which the consortium would invest Rs135 billion in improving PIA, while the government would receive Rs55 billion.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, senior military leadership, and federal ministers attended the ceremony. Advisor for Privatization Muhammad Ali briefed participants on the key features of the transaction, stating that improved airline services would directly benefit the people of Pakistan.