Pakistan has begun hosting major diplomatic talks with Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt from Sunday, positioning itself as a possible venue for negotiations between the United States and Iran amid rising tensions in West Asia.
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said the two-day meeting will include “in-depth discussions on a range of issues, including efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region,” Reuters reported.
The meeting comes as the conflict, which started after US and Israeli strikes on February 28, enters its second month, raising concerns over regional stability, energy supplies, and key trade routes.
What Is the Main Goal of These Talks?
Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said the aim is to create a mechanism to reduce tensions and explore diplomatic solutions to the conflict.
“We would discuss where the negotiations in this war are heading and how these four countries assess the situation and what can be done,” Fidan told broadcaster A Haber, according to Reuters.
Which Countries Are Participating in the Islamabad Meeting?
Foreign ministers from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt are attending the talks. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is leading the discussions, while Turkey is represented by Hakan Fidan.
Before the meeting, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a detailed phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to support de-escalation efforts. The conversation lasted over an hour and focused on Pakistan’s outreach to the US and other regional nations to encourage dialogue.
Sharif described Iran as a “brotherly” country and said Pakistan is working with multiple stakeholders to promote negotiations and reduce tensions. Pezeshkian appreciated Pakistan’s efforts and thanked Islamabad for its diplomatic role.
Can Pakistan Become a Venue for US-Iran Negotiations?
Pakistan has shared a US proposal with Iran aimed at ending the conflict and has offered to host direct talks between Washington and Tehran, Reuters reported. Iranian officials have suggested that such talks could take place in either Pakistan or Turkey.
The US proposal reportedly includes 15 points covering Iran’s nuclear programme, missile development, and arrangements related to the Strait of Hormuz, an important global trade route. However, one Iranian official called the proposal “one-sided and unfair.”
Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul also indicated that a direct meeting between the US and Iran in Pakistan could happen “very soon,” AFP reported.
How Is Iran Responding to Diplomatic Efforts?
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has shown doubt over recent diplomatic moves, accusing the US of making “unreasonable demands” and taking “contradictory actions.”
Iran has proposed its own five-point plan, which includes demands for reparations and recognition of its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz.
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said Iran has allowed 20 more ships under the Pakistani flag to pass through the Strait, calling it a confidence-building step to support trade flow.
What Is the Current Military Situation in the Region?
Even as diplomatic efforts continue, military activity in the region has increased. The United States has deployed naval forces carrying around 2,500 Marines trained in amphibious operations, along with nearly 1,000 paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division. However, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington believes it can achieve its goals without sending ground troops.
