Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke on telephone with his Malaysian counterpart Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim and expressed his serious concern over the ongoing escalation in the Middle East: Shehbaz Sharif stressed the need for upholding respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states, as enshrined in the UN Charter and international law. He urged all parties to exercise restraint, end hostilities and resolve their differences through diplomacy and dialogue.

According to Radio Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif expressed his concerns following Israel's attacks against Iran and the subsequent attacks against brotherly Gulf countries. The two leaders agreed that restoration of peace and a swift return to normalcy is essential, but this can be achieved only through exercise of maximum restraint by all parties involved. In this regard, they agreed to work together and coordinate their positions on a regular basis.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also briefed Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on recent developments in the context of Afghanistan. He especially shared the efforts being undertaken to secure Pakistan against terrorist elements, while eradicating terrorism from the region and beyond. Both leaders agreed to maintain close coordination on all issues of mutual interest.