Pakistan, April 9 -- President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday welcomed the cease-fire, reached this morning between the United States and Iran, terming it a timely step that offers space for dialogue, restraint and a more stable regional environment. The president, in a statement, said that Pakistan had consistently worked, in good faith, for de-escalation.

"We did it for the region and in the greater good of humanity at large, when the world was perilously close to a grave disaster," he remarked, adding that peace remains essential for security, economic stability and the well-being of people across interconnected regions.

He said Pakistan is proud to have led with wisdom, resolve and a steadfast commitment to peace, and expressed appre...