Naqvi and Hafiz Naeemur Rehman discuss political, economic and security challenges

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Tuesday met Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) leader Hafiz Naeemur Rehman at the party headquarters in Mansoura, where the two leaders discussed the political, economic and security situation in the country, according to a statement issued by the Interior Ministry.

The meeting also focused on the regional landscape following the recent Iran-US rapprochement. Both leaders described the development as a positive step towards stability and peace in the region.

Rehman praised Pakistan’s role in facilitating efforts that contributed to understanding between Tehran and Washington, saying the country’s contribution would be remembered as an important diplomatic achievement.

Naqvi briefed the JI chief about the Iran-US talks and the government’s diplomatic initiatives related thereto. He said Pakistan had played an important role in easing regional tensions and thanked the country’s leaders for supporting efforts aimed at peace.

“Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal played an unforgettable role in promoting peace,” the statement quoted Naqvi as saying, adding that Pakistan deserved recognition for helping to reduce tensions in the region.

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The two leaders also discussed measures to improve the economy and provide relief to the people.

During the meeting, Rehman raised the issue of Pakistani nationals stranded in Somalia and urged the government to use diplomatic channels to ensure their safe and speedy return. He said the understanding between Iran and the United States had paved the way for lasting peace in the region.

Eleven Pakistani nationals were taken hostage when the MT Honor 25 was hijacked off the southeast coast of Somalia on April 21. More than 50 days later, the Pakistani crew members, along with the ship’s other crew, remain in captivity.

According to the hostages, negotiations have stalled because the shipping company delegated negotiations to a third party rather than engaging directly with the pirates. Hackers would refuse to recognize the intermediary and insist on dealing with authorized representatives of the company, leaving no effective negotiation channel in place.

Naqvi said he was grateful that Pakistan’s peace efforts had been accepted and recognized, the statement said.