Pakistan and Iran have agreed to enhance cooperation in all areas of shared interest, especially trade, connectivity, security and people-to-people contacts.

The agreement to this effect came in a telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian today.

The Prime Minister thanked Iranian President for Iran's sincere and brotherly diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions in South Asia.

He strongly condemned India's unprovoked attacks against Pakistan that led to the martyrdom of innocent civilians, including women and children.

He said that valiant Armed Forces had given a responsible, measured yet befitting and forceful reply to the enemy.

Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan had always desired peace and it was in this spirit that it had agreed to the ceasefire understanding with India and would remain committed to upholding it.

He further reaffirmed Pakistan's firm resolve to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity at all costs.

However, the Prime Minister expressed his concern over India's attempt to unilaterally hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, which he deemed is unlawful and constituted a red line for Pakistan, as these waters were the lifeline for 240 million people.

Talking about Jammu and Kashmir dispute, the Prime Minister emphasized that it remained the root cause of instability in South Asia.

Shehbaz Sharif called for its just resolution, in accordance with the UN Security Council's resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people, as key to enduring peace in the region.

In his remarks, the President of Iran expressed heartfelt condolences over the loss of civilian lives. He welcomed the ceasefire understanding, while appreciating Pakistan's efforts for peace.

Masoud Pezeshkian extended an invitation to the Prime Minister to undertake an official visit to Tehran, which was graciously accepted.