Intense Diplomatic Effort by Pakistan and Partners
Achieved Ceasefire, Ambassador Sheikh Tells CNN

By Elaine Pasquini

Washington, DC: On April 8, 2026, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, spoke with Becky Anderson, CNN News host of the program Connect the World.

Discussing Pakistan’s positive role and diplomatic efforts regarding the US-Iran ceasefire, the ambassador said diplomatic efforts had been ongoing for the past several weeks, culminating in a successful ceasefire and the announcement of negotiations. “This is a victory of diplomacy and dialogue,” he stated.

Throughout its history, he noted, Pakistan has always prioritized positive diplomacy, and he expressed gratitude to all parties for placing their trust in his country.

“We are thankful to Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, Qatar, China, and all other countries for making diplomacy successful,” he said. “Through their joint efforts, a ceasefire was achieved and the path for negotiations was opened.”

From day one, the ambassador noted, China, urged the parties to exercise restraint and adopt the path of diplomacy, which was helpful.

To be successful, however, the negotiation process requires confidentiality. And without pressure, the negotiations are more likely to reach a decisive outcome, Ambassador Sheikh stressed, as the authority to make decisions lies with the concerned parties.

Pakistan is merely a facilitator, he commented. “We are making sincere efforts and hope that this humble and sincere effort will prove fruitful.”

During these diplomatic efforts and the ceasefire process, continuous consultations were held with the top leadership of Gulf states, who have long-standing relations with Pakistan, he said. Approximately 5.5 million Pakistanis, he added, reside in Gulf states.

“Peace and stability in the region will have a positive impact not only on the Gulf but on global politics and the economy as well,” Ambassador Sheikh said in closing.

(Elaine Pasquini is a freelance journalist. Her reports appear in the Washington Report on Middle East Affairs and Nuze.Ink.)