Pakistan and Saudi Arabia expressed deep concern over ceasefire violations in Lebanon on Thursday, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA).

The concern was raised during a telephone conversation between Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, the statement said. Dar appreciated Saudi Arabia’s continued support for Pakistan’s efforts towards achieving lasting peace.

Both leaders stressed the urgent need for full respect and implementation of the ceasefire to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region, it added.

The two talked again later today to exchange views on the evolving regional situation.

FM Dar appreciated Saudi Arabia’s steadfast support of Pakistan in its efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.

“Both leaders underscored the importance of continued dialogue and diplomatic engagement to advance lasting peace and agreed to remain in close contact.”

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper appreciated and paid tribute to Pakistan for its role in achieving the ceasefire during a telephone call with FM Dar.

In a statement, the ministry said that Cooper expressed support for Pakistan’s continued efforts to promote lasting peace and stability in the region.

“Both leaders reaffirmed the strength of their close bilateral ties and committed to further enhancing cooperation,” the statement added.

FM Dar also spoke with European Union Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas to discuss recent developments in the Middle East, according to the MoFA.

According to the statement, both sides expressed concern over serious violations of the ceasefire in Lebanon and emphasised the importance of its full implementation.

Kallas reaffirmed the European Union’s support for Pakistan’s efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.

FM Dar also held a telephone conversation with Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov to discuss the latest developments in the Middle East and the wider region, according to an official statement.

During the call, Saidov appreciated Pakistan’s leadership and conveyed Uzbekistan’s full support for initiatives undertaken by Pakistan in pursuit of peace and stability, particularly efforts to secure the initial two-week ceasefire.

Both sides expressed hope that continued engagements and efforts would help foster lasting peace and stability in the region and beyond.

Read: Chinese envoy praises Pakistan’s role in Middle East peace during meeting with FM Dar

Earlier on Wednesday, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role in advancing peace and security in the Middle East and the Gulf region during a meeting with the deputy prime minister.

According to a statement issued by the MOFA, Ambassador Zaidong conveyed China’s deep appreciation for Pakistan’s efforts in promoting peace and security in the Middle East and the Gulf region.

FM Dar also discussed the evolving regional situation and urged a lasting peace process during a series of telephonic conversations with regional counterparts and European Union Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas.