ISLAMABAD:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday held a telephone conversation with European Council President Antonio Costa. Both leaders expressed hope to see progress in the Iran-US talks expected to take place in Islamabad.
According to an official statement, the two leaders exchanged views on regional developments, including diplomatic efforts aimed at easing tensions between Tehran and Washington.
The Prime Minister briefed Costa on Pakistan’s ongoing outreach and facilitation efforts to bring both sides to the negotiating table.
Costa appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting dialogue and stability, noting that the European Union was ready to support all efforts aimed at de-escalation.
He noted that “the world is watching with great expectation” the next round of negotiations and expressed hope that an agreement would be reached to help stabilize the region and ensure the reopening of key maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz.
The Prime Minister thanked EU leaders for their support and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to diplomacy as the preferred route to resolve conflicts. The two leaders agreed to remain in close contact as the situation evolves.
Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level consultative meeting to review the country’s diplomatic posture amid rapidly changing regional dynamics. The meeting was attended by Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and other senior officials.
Sources said the meeting participants expressed satisfaction with preparations to facilitate the next phase of the Iran-US dialogue, although concerns were raised over Iran’s reluctance to participate in the proposed round of negotiations.
The participants conducted a detailed review of the situation arising from Tehran’s position and assessed its potential implications for regional stability. The meeting also focused on the broader security environment, with particular attention to rising tensions in the Middle East.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi briefed the Prime Minister on his recent interactions with the US and Iranian envoys, sharing his insights on the positions and expectations of both sides.
According to sources, Pakistan reaffirmed its resolve to ensure continued dialogue between the United States and Iran, stressing that sustained diplomatic engagement remains essential for peace.
It was agreed that efforts would be intensified to persuade Iran to return to the negotiating table, while maintaining open channels with all stakeholders.
The participants stressed that Pakistan would continue to play a “positive and constructive role” in promoting peace and stability in the region, leveraging its diplomatic relations with both sides.
Separately, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar had a telephone conversation with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, during which he stressed the importance of continued engagement and a rapid resumption of dialogue with the United States.
According to the Foreign Ministry, Dar stressed that 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 the evolving situation.
Along with his diplomatic efforts, Dar also received appreciation from his international counterparts, including the Australian Foreign Minister, for Pakistan’s role in facilitating the dialogue.
Officials said Pakistan has become a key intermediary in ongoing efforts to iron out differences between Washington and Tehran. Islamabad is preparing to host the next round of talks, with indications that a high-level US delegation could participate.
While previous talks have highlighted deep disagreements over sanctions, maritime security and regional influence, diplomatic sources say the two sides have so far kept communication channels open.
Analysts note that Pakistan’s position as an “honest mediator” reflects its growing diplomatic engagement at a critical time.
With global attention focused on Islamabad, the success of the upcoming talks could have far-reaching implications not only for regional peace but also for international economic stability.
