ISLAMABAD(National Times)- The motives behind recent mediation efforts by Pakistan\u2019s civilian and military leadership were aimed at securing regional stability and peace among Muslim countries, rather than pursing narrower interests, a senior security official said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The remarks came at a background briefing for selected journalists, held on Tuesday. There, the official addressed a wide range of issues, including Pakistan\u2019s role in securing peace between the US and Iran and issues arising out of India\u2019s tampering with the Indus basin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The security official said that through consultation with key stakeholders, Pakistan \u2014 and Field Marshal Asim Munir in particular \u2014 had helped avert a major war that he said had been planned with serious consequences for the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FM Munir\u2019s \u201csincerity, competence, brilliance and Allah\u2019s blessings\u201d was credited for what the official called a war \u201cwon\u2026 without actually being fought\u201d, and described this as \u201cthe pinnacle of strategy\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The official said the diplomatic process required \u201cutmost confidentiality, responsibility and caution,\u201d and that Pakistan, as a \u201cresponsible mediator,\u201d would not discuss the substance of any talks or next steps in order to avoid speculation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He also credited Muslim-maj\u00adority countries, particularly Sau\u00addi Arabia, with showing what he called \u201cmasterly leadership, res\u00adtraint and strategic patience\u201d in helping avert a war he said could otherwise have pitted Muslim countries against one another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n