Pakistan and the European Union have stressed the need for having humanitarian corridors amid the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war, as the shelling has trapped thousands of people in besieged cities and sent 2.5 million Ukrainians fleeing to neighbouring countries.

The consensus was reached during a video call between Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood Deputy and European External Action Service (EEAS) Secretary General Enrique Mora on Saturday, the Foreign Office said in a series of tweets.

According to media reports, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has warned Russian forces they face a fight to the death if they try to occupy the capital Kyiv.

The foreign secretary reaffirmed “Pakistan’s principled position, respect for principles of UN Charter, need for cessation of hostilities, maintenance of humanitarian corridors and provision of humanitarian assistance.”

Moreover, Mahmood stressed the need for continuous efforts for a solution through diplomacy and dialogue and reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to reinforce such endeavours. Pakistan, which prompted the world's attention when PM Imran Khan visited Russia and Kremlin was invading Ukraine, has called for opting diplomacy to resolve issues. PM Imran during an interview with Russia TV lamented that the escalation between the two neighbours at reached such a level.

The premier had expressed concerns that such a situation could have an adverse impact on the poor countries in form of high fuel and wheat prices as the two warring countries are the two biggest exporters of such commodities. Similar concerns were shared in a statement issued after PM Imran's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Stressing the importance of Pakistan and the European Union partnership, the foreign secretary also shared perspective on Afghanistan and the recent “accidental” firing of Indian missiles into Pakistanis territory.

Furthermore, EEAS Secretary General Enrique Mora termed the conversation with the foreign secretary on the Russian invasion of Ukraine a “good exchange”.

“Stressed urgency for humanitarian corridors and an immediate ceasefire. Indicated how unacceptable breach of UN Charter have met EU’s, along with it other partners, robust sanctions,” he said in a tweet.