Iran, Pakistan agree to work for peaceful solution to Yemen crisis

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif (R) shakes hands with Pakistani advisor to Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz (L), in Islamabad, Pakistan, April 8, 2015. [Photo/IC]

ISLAMABAD - Visiting Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad-Javad Zarif said on Wednesday that Iran and Pakistan have agreed to work for a peaceful solution to the Yemen crisis.

Zarif made the remarks at a joint press conference with Pakistan's top foreign affairs adviser Sartaj Aziz after their official talks that focused on the crisis in the Middle East.

"We have agreed to work together for a peaceful solution to the conflict in Yemen," said the Iranian foreign minister, who arrived Wednesday evening on a two-day visit to Pakistan.

He demanded a halt to the Saudi-led airstrikes in Yemen and said these actions have caused sufferings of the people in Yemen. He also called for an immediate ceasefire in Yemen to give opportunity to the peace process.

"We support intra-Yemeni dialogue to find out solution and to form a broad-based government there," Zarif said. He denied military support to the Houthis.

The Iranian foreign minister warned that the Islamic State or Daish and al-Qaeda are taking advantage of the situation in Yemen and they have already taken control of some areas.

He said Pakistan and Iran face serious challenges of terrorism and extremism and referred to the recent killing of eight Iranian guards near the Pakistani border region. He welcomed Pakistan's announcement to investigate the incident.

Zarif said he also discussed the situation in Afghanistan and both sides agreed to work together for peace and stability in Afghanistan.

Sartaj Aziz said his country favours unity among all Muslim nations as conflicts could harm the unity. He also called for peaceful solution to the crisis in the Middle East.

Earlier Zarif said on his arrival that Iran considers Pakistan as an important country for a solution to regional problems.

"We believe that consultations with Pakistan for a solution to regional problems are necessary," he said.

"Pakistan has a special position for Iran. We want peace and security in the region," he added.

The Iranian foreign minister arrived from Oman where he exchanged views with Omani officials on the crisis in Yemen.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Marzieh Afkham said on Tuesday that Zarif would convey Iran's deep concern over the humanitarian plight in Yemen in his talks in Pakistan and Oman.

A section of the Iranian media has reported that Tehran was concerned at reports of Islamabad extending support to Saudi Arabia and its Arab allies in strikes against Houthis in Yemen.