Islamabad, April 10, 2026 – The Europe Today: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday held a telephone conversation with his French counterpart Jean-Noël Barrot, during which the two sides discussed evolving regional developments and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
During the call, the French foreign minister congratulated Pakistan on its constructive role in facilitating an initial ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran. He expressed support for Islamabad’s continued diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.
Both leaders voiced serious concern over reported ceasefire violations in Lebanon and underscored the importance of full implementation and strict adherence to the agreement. They agreed to remain in close coordination while advancing cooperation in economic and trade sectors as part of broader bilateral engagement.
The discussion comes amid rising tensions following Pakistan’s mediation in brokering the US-Iran truce, after which Israel launched a series of intensified military strikes in Lebanon. Despite the ceasefire, hostilities have escalated, with Lebanese authorities reporting significant casualties and injuries, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
US President Donald Trump has reportedly urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to scale back military operations, expressing hope that the fragile ceasefire could be sustained and expanded.
The truce, announced earlier this week, is intended to create space for diplomatic negotiations scheduled to take place in Islamabad, with the aim of reaching a longer-term settlement. However, differing interpretations between Washington and Tehran over whether Lebanon falls within the scope of the ceasefire have added to uncertainty.
While the United States maintains that Israeli actions are outside the framework of the truce, Iran has warned that continued strikes could undermine the agreement and jeopardize ongoing peace efforts.
Pakistan has reiterated that the ceasefire should be fully respected and extended to Lebanon, emphasizing its continued commitment to facilitating dialogue and promoting a durable resolution through diplomatic channels.
