PTI says Pakistan should continue mediating between Iran and the US

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Central Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram said on Sunday that the latest talks between Iran and the United States in Islamabad had ended without a final agreement, but maintained that the outcome should still be seen as encouraging because both sides acknowledged progress and only a limited number of issues remained unresolved.

In a statement issued by the PTI Central Media Department, Akram said the absence of a final deal may appear disappointing initially, but stressed that the negotiations had moved forward in a meaningful way. "In such situations, optimism should not be lost. Diplomatic processes take time, and even reaching a stage where only a handful of issues remain unresolved is, in itself, a positive step forward," he said addibng that dialogue must continue, describing it as the only durable route to lasting peace.

Akram said Pakistan had played an important role by helping create a ceasefire environment and by hosting the talks in Islamabad. He said this demonstrated the country’s capacity to serve as a channel for peace in a region that has faced prolonged instability and conflict.

According to Akram, both Iran and the United States expressed confidence in Pakistan and appreciated its role in efforts aimed at securing a ceasefire and facilitating high-level engagement. He said that placed Pakistan in a position to continue the mediation process and potentially host another round of talks in Islamabad in the future.

He also said that countries friendly to Pakistan, including China, Turkiye and Egypt, had supported Pakistan’s initiatives in recent days. Akram added that these states, along with other regional and European countries, should continue to play what he described as a crucial role with greater commitment to prevent the region from slipping back into a devastating war.

Referring to PTI’s position, Akram said Pakistan should stay the course of mediation and peaceful engagement. He said the principle of yes to peace, no to war, which he said was emphasized during Imran Khan’s tenure, should remain central to the country’s foreign policy.

Akram said that with regional tensions still elevated, it was important for Pakistan to avoid becoming involved in any armed conflict. He said such an approach served the national interest and reflected the aspirations of the Pakistani people for stability, economic progress and peace.