ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Peoples Party Vice President and PPP Parliamentary Leader in the Senate Sherry Rehman has reaffirmed Pakistan’s position as a credible and trusted mediator in ongoing regional tensions during an interview with Bloomberg.
In an interview, she noted that despite repeated breakdowns in dialogue and a stop-and-start negotiation process between key stakeholders, one constant has remained: their trust in Pakistan. She described this sustained confidence as a clear indicator of Pakistan’s diplomatic capital in both Iran and the United States. “Pakistan has become adept at leveraging its diplomatic capital, strategic stability, and long-standing relationships built on trust and engagement,” she said.
Highlighting Pakistan’s regional relationships, she emphasized the country’s strong ties with Gulf energy titans, including Saudi Arabia and Iran. She pointed to Pakistan’s joint defence cooperation with Saudi Arabia and its close geographic and economic relationship with neighbouring Iran as key factors enhancing its diplomatic leverage. She underscored that Pakistan, trusted by all sides, has played a stabilizing role in reducing the risk of conflict.
“Pakistan has acted as a hedge against war, helping pave the way towards lasting peace,” she said while acknowledging that the ultimate responsibility for de-escalation lies with the parties directly involved. Addressing energy security concerns, Sherry underscored the critical importance of the Strait of Hormuz, noting that approximately 80–81% of Pakistan’s energy imports —including LNG, oil, petrol, and crude — transit through this vital route. She urged both Iran and the United States to reduce tensions to avoid disruptions to global energy supplies.
“Even minor instability in this region can quickly impact international markets, drive up fuel prices, and create serious economic challenges, particularly for energy-importing countries,” she warned. Reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to diplomacy, she concluded that the country will continue to promote dialogue, reduce mistrust, and support efforts aimed at achieving sustainable peace and stability in the region.
