Pakistan is preparing to welcome the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt for comprehensive discussions on March 29 and 30. The talks will focus on critical regional and global issues, particularly efforts to reduce tensions related to the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
Islamabad has positioned itself as a crucial mediator between Iran and the United States, facilitating communication between the two nations as the conflict persists. The visit, extended at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, will see Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Turkiye’s Hakan Fidan, and Egypt’s Badr Abdelatty convene in Pakistan’s capital.
During their stay, the foreign ministers will engage in detailed talks covering a broad range of topics, including strategies to de-escalate regional hostilities. They are also scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Pakistan values its strong ties with these allied countries and views this meeting as an opportunity to deepen cooperation and coordination across various areas of mutual interest.
Deputy Prime Minister Dar noted that the meeting was initially planned to be held in Turkiye but was relocated to Islamabad due to scheduling conflicts. He emphasized Pakistan’s sincere efforts to resolve ongoing disputes and highlighted the robust support from allied nations. While negotiations with Iran continue, officials are maintaining discretion due to the sensitive nature of the discussions.
Earlier, Dar confirmed that indirect talks between the United States and Iran are underway, facilitated by Pakistan with assistance from Turkiye and Egypt. These efforts have included direct communication between Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces and US President Donald Trump, as acknowledged by the White House. Pakistan subsequently conveyed a US proposal to Iran, though details remain undisclosed. Iran rejected the proposal, asserting it will conclude the conflict on its own terms and timeline.
In preparation for the upcoming talks, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a detailed phone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, lasting over an hour. The Prime Minister condemned the ongoing Israeli attacks on Iran, including strikes on civilian infrastructure, and expressed solidarity with the Iranian people. He also offered condolences for the lives lost and prayers for those injured or displaced.
Sharif updated the Iranian president on Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach efforts involving the United States and Gulf and Islamic countries aimed at promoting dialogue and de-escalation. The Iranian president underscored the importance of building trust to facilitate mediation and talks. The two leaders have maintained ongoing communication in recent weeks, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to helping bring the conflict to a peaceful resolution.
