South Africa (SA) has welcomed Pakistan’s mediation push in the Middle East, urging an immediate halt to hostilities and strict respect for international law to avoid further escalation.
Minister of International Relations and Co-operation, Ronald Lamola, spoke with Pakistan’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Thursday reaffirming Pretoria’s support for efforts toward lasting peace.
He stressed that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations must be upheld. Talks between Iranian and United States delegations are expected in Islamabad on Friday.
Addressing Heads of Mission from the Middle East and Asia, Lamola also emphasised the inclusion of Lebanon in any ceasefire arrangement.
“We note the current initiative and ongoing efforts of achieving a comprehensive end to the conflict in the Middle East and advancing a just sustainable and the lasting peace. We also call for cessation of all hostilities and fire, that this ceasefire should also include Lebanon. The sovereignty and integrity of all affected countries must be respected by all parties involved.”
—SABC—
