ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met United States Vice President JD Vance on Saturday as the high-stakes Islamabad Talks formally commenced in the federal capital, according to a press release issued by the Prime Minister’s Office.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from both sides. The US delegation was led by Vice President JD Vance and included Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner. On the Pakistani side, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi participated in the discussions.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif appreciated the commitment shown by both delegations to engage in constructive dialogue and expressed hope that the talks would help pave the way for durable peace and regional stability.
He reiterated Pakistan’s readiness to continue facilitating engagement between the United States and Iran, emphasizing Islamabad’s role in promoting dialogue and reducing regional tensions.
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister also met a high-level Iranian delegation led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, accompanied by Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. The delegation held detailed discussions on bilateral relations and broader regional developments ahead of their engagement with the US side, according to Iranian media.
Officials confirmed that the Iranian delegation arrived in Islamabad late Friday night and was received by senior Pakistani leadership, including Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
Meanwhile, the US delegation also arrived in the capital to participate in what has been termed the “Islamabad Talks,” with both sides engaging in high-level diplomatic sessions aimed at addressing regional security and economic concerns.
Observers say the negotiations carry significant geopolitical weight, with potential implications for regional stability, energy security, and broader international relations. Pakistan’s role as host has placed it at the center of intensified diplomatic activity, with authorities enforcing strict security measures across the capital.
As discussions continue, attention remains focused on whether the talks can produce a sustainable framework for de-escalation and long-term stability in the region.
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