Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has met with United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, where the latter commended Pakistan’s role in the Middle East peace process, according to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

Exchanging views on major regional and international developments, PM Shehbaz has stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving regional tensions, reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to promoting peace and stability in the Middle East, the PMO says in a statement.

“The Secretary General commended Pakistan’s leading role and strong voice at the UN, [its] contribution to international peace and security and particularly appreciated the important mediation efforts undertaken by Pakistan for peaceful resolution of the conflict and durable peace and stability in the region,” the statement adds.