ISLAMABAD:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone conversation with European Council President Antonio Costa on Monday. Both leaders expressed hope for progress in the anticipated Iran-US talks expected to be held in Islamabad.
According to an official statement, the two leaders exchanged views on regional developments, particularly 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 the two sides to the negotiating table.
Costa appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting dialogue and stability and noted that the European Union was ready to support all de-escalation efforts.
He noted that “the world is looking with great anticipation to” the next round of talks 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 the EU leadership for its support and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to diplomacy as the preferred route for conflict resolution. Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact as developments unfold.
Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level consultative meeting to review the country’s diplomatic stance 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 expressed satisfaction with preparations to facilitate the next phase of Iran-US dialogue, although concerns were raised over Iran’s reported reluctance to participate in the proposed round of talks.
The participants conducted a detailed review of the situation resulting from Tehran’s position and assessed its potential implications for regional stability. The meeting also focused on the wider 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 and shared insights into the positions and expectations of both sides.
According to sources, Pakistan reaffirmed its determination to ensure that dialogue between the US and Iran continues, 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 will continue to play a “positive and constructive role” in promoting peace and stability in the region and leverage its diplomatic ties with both sides.
Separately, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, in which he stressed the importance of continued engagement and early resumption of dialogue with the United States.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dar stressed that all outstanding issues should be resolved through diplomacy to promote regional peace and stability. Both sides agreed to remain closely engaged and continue consultations on developments.
Alongside diplomatic outreach, Dar also received appreciation from international colleagues, including Australia’s foreign minister, for Pakistan’s role in promoting dialogue.
Officials said Pakistan has emerged as a key intermediary in ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between Washington and Tehran. Islamabad is preparing to host the next round of talks, with indications that a high-level US delegation may attend.
While earlier discussions highlighted deep disagreements over sanctions, maritime security and regional influence, diplomatic sources say both sides have so far kept communication channels open.
Analysts note that Pakistan’s positioning as an “honest broker” reflects its growing diplomatic engagement at a critical time.
With global attention focused on Islamabad, the success of the upcoming negotiations could have far-reaching implications not only for regional peace but also for international economic stability.
