US envoy meets Naqvi, discusses diplomatic efforts for second round of talks in Islamabad

US Charge d’Affairs to Pakistan Natalie Baker met Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Thursday, where both discussed diplomatic efforts regarding the second round of talks in Islamabad.

According to the Interior Ministry, the two sides discussed the developing regional situation and “reviewed diplomatic progress ahead of the second round of Islamabad talks.”

Naqvi said positive progress was also expected from Iran as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defense Force Field Marshal Asim Munir were making vigorous efforts at all levels to resolve the issue.

“It is hoped that both sides will give a chance to diplomacy and a peaceful solution,” Naqvi said.

The statement further added that the Interior Minister appreciated US President Donald Trump for his initiative to extend the ceasefire, terming it an “important development” towards easing tensions in the region.

“Natalie praised Pakistan’s constructive role in establishing peace in the region and resolving the conflict,” the statement concluded.

Relations between the United States and Pakistan, in the context of the current crisis with Iran, reflect a pragmatic and security-oriented partnership, in which Islamabad has positioned itself as a key broker.

Trump’s decision to extend the ceasefire – explicitly recognizing the demands of PM Shehbaz and CDF Munir – underscores Washington’s reliance on Pakistan’s backdoor diplomacy at a time of heightened regional volatility.

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Despite historically fluctuating ties, particularly after the war in Afghanistan, current engagement signals a renewed convergence where Pakistan’s geographic influence and diplomatic access are critical to managing escalation risks in the Gulf.

At the same time, war dynamics complicate this cooperation, as the United States continues to maintain military pressure on Iran through blockades and deterrence measures, while endorsing Islamabad-facilitated talks. Pakistan’s role as an “honest mediator” allows it to interact with both Washington and Tehran, but also places it in an awkward position amid competing strategic expectations.

For the United States, working with Pakistan offers a way to de-escalate the situation without direct concessions, while for Islamabad, mediation strengthens its global diplomatic position without direct military involvement. However, the sustainability of this alignment will depend on whether the negotiations produce tangible results or whether the resumption of hostilities will force both sides to return to a more transactional, security-focused relationship.