Pakistan intensifies diplomatic push to keep Iran-US talks on track

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday spoke by telephone with European Council President Antonio Costa, with both leaders expressing hope for progress in the expected Iran-US talks that Islamabad is preparing to host.

According to an official statement, the two leaders discussed regional developments, particularly diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions between Tehran and Washington. The prime minister briefed Costa on Pakistan’s ongoing outreach and facilitation efforts to help bring the two sides to the negotiating table.

Costa appreciated Pakistan’s role in encouraging dialogue and stability, and said the European Union was ready to back all efforts directed at de-escalation. He said the world is watching with great expectation the next round of talks and expressed hope that an agreement would help stabilise the region and lead to the reopening of key maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz.

Shehbaz thanked the EU leadership for its support and reiterated Pakistan’s position that diplomacy remains the preferred way to resolve conflicts. Both leaders agreed to stay in close contact as the situation develops.

High-level review of regional situation

Earlier in the day, the prime minister chaired a high-level consultative meeting to assess Pakistan’s diplomatic posture amid fast-changing regional developments. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and other senior officials attended the meeting.

Sources said the participants expressed satisfaction over preparations for facilitating the next phase of Iran-US dialogue, even as concern was noted over Iran’s reported reluctance to take part in the proposed round of talks. The meeting reviewed the situation arising from Tehran’s position and examined its possible implications for regional stability.

The broader security environment also came under discussion, with particular focus on rising tensions in the Middle East. Mohsin Naqvi briefed the prime minister on his recent interactions with the American and Iranian envoys and shared insights into the positions and expectations of both sides.

Pakistan reaffirmed its determination to help ensure that dialogue between the United States and Iran continues, stressing that sustained diplomatic engagement remains essential for peace. It was agreed that efforts would be stepped up to persuade Iran to return to the negotiating table while keeping communication channels open with all stakeholders.

Participants also underscored that Pakistan would continue to play a positive and constructive role in promoting peace and stability in the region by using its diplomatic ties with both sides.

Dar contacts Iranian counterpart

Separately, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, during which he stressed the importance of continued engagement and an early resumption of dialogue with the United States.

According to the Foreign Office, Dar said all outstanding issues should be resolved through diplomacy in order to promote regional peace and stability. Both sides agreed to remain closely engaged and continue consultations on evolving developments.

In parallel diplomatic outreach, Dar also received appreciation from international counterparts, including Australia’s foreign minister, for Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue.

Officials said Pakistan has emerged as an important intermediary in efforts to narrow differences between Washington and Tehran. Islamabad is preparing to host the next round of talks, and there are indications that a high-level US delegation may take part.

Earlier discussions, officials said, had highlighted serious differences over sanctions, maritime security and regional influence, though diplomatic sources said communication channels between the two sides have remained open so far.

Analysts said Pakistan’s position as an honest broker reflects its expanding diplomatic engagement at a sensitive moment. With international attention focused on Islamabad, the outcome of the anticipated talks could carry significant implications for regional peace as well as wider economic stability.