Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan will continue efforts to facilitate dialogue between the United States and Iran to promote regional peace [1].
This diplomatic push comes as tensions persist between Washington and Tehran. Pakistan is positioning itself as a neutral mediator to prevent further escalation and foster a ceasefire through the newly launched "Islamabad Talks" initiative [2, 3].
During the proceedings on Saturday, Sharif met with high-level officials to advance the peace process [2, 3]. Reports on the specific attendees varied, with some sources saying Sharif met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi [1], while others indicated he met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance [3].
Sharif said that Pakistan will continue its efforts to advance dialogue between the United States and Iran and promote lasting peace and stability in the region [2]. The Prime Minister's office confirmed that the Islamabad Talks had officially commenced [3].
The diplomatic effort has drawn international attention. Antonio Costa, the EU Council chief, said the world is watching with great expectation [4].
These meetings are part of a broader strategy to establish a sustainable framework for communication between the two powers. By hosting the talks, Islamabad seeks to stabilize its own borders while enhancing its role as a key diplomatic player in the Middle East, and South Asia.
“Pakistan will continue its efforts to advance dialogue between the United States and Iran”
Pakistan's role as a mediator in the US-Iran relationship suggests a strategic pivot to increase its geopolitical leverage. By hosting the 'Islamabad Talks,' Pakistan aims to reduce regional volatility that often spills over into its own security landscape, while simultaneously strengthening ties with both the U.S. administration and the Iranian government.
