STAFF REPORTER
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday announced that Pakistan would host the historic signing ceremony of the US-Iran peace agreement in Geneva on June 19, terming the deal a “monumental milestone” for global peace and a triumph of peace and dialogue over the devastation of war. “Today, the world has witnessed that the pursuit of peace has achieved a great victory, and the flames of war have begun to subside. This is a historic moment that historians will record in golden letters,” the prime minister said, addressing the National Assembly, hours after he and President Donald Trump announced that the deal between the United States and Iran had been reached. While still a framework, the deal marked the biggest breakthrough towards resolving the conflict that has killed thousands and upended energy markets since it began with joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran in February. Describing the moment as a divine blessing after three months and sixteen days of immense trials, he said: “Following the dark night of war, the sun of peace has finally risen.” He told the House that under the deal, Iran and the US have announced the immediate and permanent end to military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon. “This is not just an agreement between two nations, but a victory for peace, dialogue, and diplomacy over the devastation of war,” the prime minister said, adding that the prestige and honour Allah has bestowed upon Pakistan today is something nations have sought for centuries. He congratulated the Pakistani nation and the entire global community on this success, and extended his congratulations to the Speaker and every member of the House. He expressed gratitude to his party leadership, particularly party leader Nawaz Sharif, saying his guidance remained available to him at all times. He also congratulated President Asif Zardari, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and the heads of all political parties. Addressing the House, the prime minister congratulated US President Trump, Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and all members of both negotiating teams involved in the peace process, saying the parties had not let go of wisdom, prudence and patience despite difficult circumstances. He paid tribute to the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, for his full cooperation during the delicate, difficult and patience-testing negotiation process, saying the Emir had played an extremely positive role.
