FO rejects claims that CDF visited Iran as US ‘envoy’

Foreign Office (FO) spokesperson Tahir Andrabi firmly rejected claims that Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal General Asim Munir, visited Iran as an envoy of President Trump or the United States. Andrabi stated the reports were misleading and factually incorrect. The visit, Andrabi explained, was purely for Pakistan's role as a mediator in the ongoing crisis between Iran and the United States.

The region remains a focal point for Pakistan, which continues to engage with other countries to resolve the standoff and restore peace. On the diplomatic front, Munir's visit to Tehran on August 24th was part of Pakistan's diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the US-Iran conflict and reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Discussions highlighted regional de-escalation, breaking the military stalemate, and a negotiated settlement for peace and stability.

Pakistan is set to assume the Chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) for a year, following the SCO Council of Heads of State Summit in Bishkek from September 31 to October 1, 2026. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will attend the summit, along with bilateral engagements with Kyrgyzstan. Pakistan remains committed to diplomatic engagement and supports sincere efforts to revive peace talks and achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting resolution to the conflict.

Andrabi mentioned the Afghan government's proposal for a dedicated bilateral mechanism to address contentious issues, stating Pakistan is open to state-level dialogue provided the Afghan Taliban ensures Afghan soil is not used for terrorism against Pakistan. The spokesperson also addressed Bangladesh's interest in joining the Makkah Agreement, stating the agreement is defensive and any formal request will be considered with partners in Riyadh and Ankara.

Andrabi highlighted that Indian authorities demolished facilities near Pakistan's High Commission in New Delhi, citing a violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Pakistan strongly protested the act, emphasizing it targets unauthorized structures in the Diplomatic Enclave, not just India's. Pakistan and Qatar aim to promote peace and secure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, stating renewed efforts are positive due to its impact on global supply chains, especially energy.

Qatar and Oman are actively engaged in convincing Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Pakistan remains hopeful for momentum in regaining access to the Strait, as its disruption affects everyone.