ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met a high-level Iranian delegation on Saturday as Pakistan positioned itself at the centre of critical diplomatic activity ahead of landmark US–Iran talks in Islamabad, according to Iranian media reports.
The Iranian delegation, led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and accompanied by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, held detailed discussions with the prime minister on bilateral ties, regional developments, and broader international issues ahead of their engagement with the US delegation.
Officials said the meeting focused on the evolving security situation in the region, ongoing tensions involving Iran, and prospects for dialogue aimed at de-escalation.
Earlier, the Iranian delegation arrived in Islamabad late Friday night and was received by senior Pakistani leadership, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, according to the Foreign Office.
Meanwhile, a senior United States delegation led by Vice President JD Vance also arrived in the federal capital to participate in what has been termed the “Islamabad Talks.” The US delegation includes Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner.
With both delegations present in Islamabad, the capital has become the focal point of one of the most significant diplomatic engagements in recent years, as efforts intensify to address a six-week-long conflict and reduce regional tensions.
Observers say the stakes remain exceptionally high, with potential implications for US–Iran relations, Middle East stability, and global energy markets.
Analysts note that Iran enters the talks with strategic leverage, citing its retained nuclear infrastructure and ability to influence key maritime energy routes. The United States, while maintaining diplomatic and strategic strength, faces a complex negotiation environment shaped by regional dynamics.
Diplomatic sources suggest that even if an agreement is reached, challenges may remain regarding enforcement and the positions of regional stakeholders.
As Islamabad hosts both sides, Pakistan continues to play a central mediating role, with heightened security measures in place to facilitate the diplomatic process.
Attention now turns to the outcome of the negotiations, which could significantly influence regional alignments and the future trajectory of peace efforts.
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