Pakistan intensifies diplomacy as Dar urges continued Iran-US engagement

• FM Dar, Iran’s Araghchi stress early dialogue to resolve disputes amid regional uncertainty

• Australia praises Pakistan’s ‘constructive role’ in mediation efforts

• Penny Wong lauds Islamabad’s commitment to diplomatic engagement

• Global powers back peaceful resolution amid rising tensions

 ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Monday stressed the importance of sustained engagement and dialogue during a telephone conversation with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, as uncertainty continues to surround a potential second round of US-Iran talks in Islamabad, the Foreign Office said.

In a post on X, the Foreign Office confirmed that FM Dar held a telephonic conversation with the Iranian foreign minister.

DPM/FM Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 spoke with Foreign Minister of Iran, Abbas Araghchi @Araghchi.

DPM/FM emphasized the importance of continued dialogue and engagement at the earliest to resolve all pending issues, in order to promote regional peace and stability.… pic.twitter.com/yRLWLUf1pP

— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) April 20, 2026

During the call, Dar emphasised the need for continued dialogue and early engagement to resolve outstanding issues and promote regional peace and stability. Both sides agreed to remain closely engaged moving forward.

The Iranian side, in its own statement, said the two ministers discussed regional developments and ceasefire-related matters, exchanging views on ongoing coordination.

FM @araghchi of Iran and Pakistan’s Deputy PM & FM @MIshaqDar50 held a phone call to discuss regional developments and ceasefire-related issues, exchanging views on ongoing coordination. #Iran #Pakistan #Diplomacy pic.twitter.com/qGqSapKy3X

— Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran (@Iran_GOV) April 20, 2026

Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach gains traction

Earlier, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong appreciated Pakistan’s “constructive role” in facilitating dialogue and its continued commitment to diplomatic engagement during a telephone call with Ishaq Dar.

According to the Foreign Office, Wong expressed appreciation for Dar’s efforts in promoting dialogue between Tehran and Washington and commended Pakistan’s sustained diplomatic role in encouraging engagement.

Deputy Prime Minister /Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50, held a telephone conversation with Foreign Minister of Australia Penny Wong @SenatorWong.

FM Wong expressed her appreciation for the DPM/FM’s efforts, as well as Pakistan’s constructive role in… pic.twitter.com/pFNZyz6LNm

— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) April 20, 2026

“She commended Pakistan’s continued commitment to promoting diplomatic engagement in this regard,” the statement said.

The Foreign Office added that Dar briefed the Australian foreign minister on the “Islamabad Talks” held on April 11–12 and reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to continue encouraging dialogue and constructive engagement.

Both sides expressed concern over broader implications for the global economy, particularly for developing countries, and stressed the importance of peaceful resolution of conflicts.

Pakistan at centre of mediation efforts

The Foreign Office noted that FM Dar has received growing international recognition for his diplomatic outreach, as Pakistan has positioned itself at the centre of high-level mediation efforts during the evolving Iran-US-Israel tensions.

Over the past week, senior officials and influential voices from more than ten countries — including Saudi Arabia, Iran, the United States, China, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Uzbekistan, and Egypt — have acknowledged Pakistan’s facilitation efforts in encouraging ceasefire-related dialogue.

Meanwhile, Islamabad is preparing to host a second round of Iran–United States talks after Washington confirmed that a high-level US delegation led by Vice President JD Vance is expected to arrive in Pakistan.

Pakistan has emerged as a key facilitator in the sensitive diplomatic track, positioning itself as an “honest broker” amid sharply divided positions between Washington and Tehran. While the first round exposed deep disagreements over sanctions, maritime security, and regional influence, officials say both sides have kept communication channels open despite hardened public rhetoric ahead of the next phase of talks.