ISLAMABAD (MNN); The Foreign Office announced the arrival of a high-level Iranian delegation in Islamabad ahead of key ceasefire negotiations with the United States scheduled for tomorrow.
The delegation, led by Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, was received by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
According to the Foreign Office, Ishaq Dar expressed hope that both sides would engage constructively, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to facilitating a lasting and sustainable resolution to the conflict.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif termed the hosting of US-Iran negotiations a “proud moment” for Pakistan and the wider Muslim world. In a televised address, he thanked the leadership of both Iran and the United States for accepting Pakistan’s proposal for a ceasefire and agreeing to hold peace talks in Islamabad.
He stated that Pakistan’s leadership played a careful yet confident role in persuading both Tehran and Washington to agree to a temporary ceasefire. The prime minister also praised Ishaq Dar and his diplomatic team for their tireless efforts, along with Field Marshal Asim Munir for helping de-escalate tensions and encouraging dialogue.
Calling the upcoming talks a “make or break” moment, the premier acknowledged that while a temporary ceasefire has been achieved, securing long-term peace through dialogue would remain a challenging process.
Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer congratulated Pakistan on facilitating the ceasefire and resumption of dialogue. In a telephone conversation, Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and welcomed international support for the initiative.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Starmer appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic role and extended best wishes for the success of the Islamabad talks. Both leaders agreed on the importance of sustaining the ceasefire and working jointly for long-term stability.
Separately, Ishaq Dar also held a telephonic conversation with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, who praised Pakistan’s efforts in easing tensions. He emphasized the need for inclusive negotiations addressing Iran’s nuclear, ballistic, and regional concerns, while both sides highlighted the importance of including Lebanon in ceasefire arrangements for lasting peace.
