Mike Pompeo phones to COAS Gen Qamar amid US-Iran tensions
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday called COAS Gen Qamar Bajwa amid US-Iran tensions.
Spokesperson Pakistan Armed Forces. Major General Asif Ghafoor, DG ISPR in a series of tweets has briefed regarding the telephonic conversation between Secretory of State and COAS.
“COAS received a telephone call from US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Regional situation including possible implications of recent escalation in Middle East was discussed”, DG ISPR tweeted.
“COAS emphasised need for maximum restraint and constructive engagement by all concerned to de-escalate the situation in broader interest of peace and stability. COAS also reiterated the need for maintaining focus on success of Afghan Peace Process”. DG ISPR Tweeted.
COAS emphasised need for maximum restraint and constructive engagement by all concerned to de-escalate the situation in broader interest of peace and stability. COAS also reiterated the need for maintaining focus on success of Afghan Peace Process.(2of2).
— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) January 3, 2020
Here is why #worldwar3 trending top on social media today
Secretary Pempeo also shared about the telephone call on social media.
“Pakistan’s Chief of Staff General Bajwa and I spoke today about US defensive action to kill Qassem Soleimani,” Pompeo wrote on Twitter.
“The Iran regime’s actions in the region are destabilising and our resolve in protecting American interests, personnel, facilities, and partners will not waver,” he added.
#Pakistan's Chief of Staff General Bajwa and I spoke today about U.S. defensive action to kill Qassem Soleimani. The #Iran regime’s actions in the region are destabilizing and our resolve in protecting American interests, personnel, facilities, and partners will not waver.
— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) January 3, 2020
Pakistan urges US, Iran to ‘resolve issues through dialogue’
Meanwhile, amid US-Iran escalating tensions, Pakistan has issued a statement, expressing “deep concern with the recent developments in the Middle East, which seriously threaten peace and stability in the region”.
“Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity are the fundamental principles of the UN Charter, which should be adhered to. It is also important to avoid unilateral actions and use of force,” the statement read.
“All parties are urged to exercise maximum restraint, engage constructively to de-escalate the situation, and resolve issues through diplomatic means, in accordance with UN Charter and international law,” it further said.
However, the official statement issued by the Foreign Office did not mention the assassination of General Soleimani.
