ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday reaffirmed Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to facilitate negotiations between the United States and Iran, expressing gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump for agreeing to extend the ceasefire at Islamabad’s request.
In a post on X platform, Sharif said he was speaking both in his personal capacity and on behalf of Field Marshal Asim Munir, thanking Trump for what he described as a “gracious” decision that allowed diplomatic efforts to continue.
Sharif issued the statement soon after President Trump announced that he would extend the ceasefire with Iran following a request from Pakistan.
On my personal behalf and on behalf of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, I sincerely thank President Trump for graciously accepting our request to extend the ceasefire to allow ongoing diplomatic efforts to take their course.
With the trust and confidence reposed in, Pakistan…
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) April 21, 2026
In his statement, Trump earlier wrote:
“Upon the request of Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan, we have been asked to hold our attack on Iran,” Trump said on Truth Social, indicating Islamabad’s critical role in ongoing de-escalation efforts
“I have therefore directed our Military to continue the blockade… and will extend the ceasefire until such time as their proposal is submitted, and discussions are concluded,” Trump added.
In his statement, Sharif said, “With the trust and confidence reposed in us, Pakistan shall continue its earnest efforts for a negotiated settlement of the conflict,” Sharif said, reiterating Islamabad’s commitment to mediation.
Trump Extends Iran Ceasefire at Pakistan’s Request, Awaits Tehran’s Unified Proposal
Sharif further expressed hope that both sides would maintain the ceasefire and move toward a comprehensive peace agreement during the second round of talks scheduled in Islamabad.
He said such an outcome could pave the way for a “permanent end to the conflict,” as Pakistan continues to position itself as a key facilitator of dialogue between Washington and Tehran.
Asim Tanveer is a seasoned journalist working for TV and electronic and print media outlets. He has been working for some of the world’s leading news organizations including Associated Press (AP), Reuters, BBC, CNN, CNBC, Star TV, Voice of America and The New York Times for more than 20 years. He has won several awards for his live coverage of events that include a Reuters News Agency World Award and the Pride of Performance award in 2010.
