ISLAMABAD: The government has implemented the highest level of security protocols in Islamabad ahead of the arrival of a high-profile US delegation led by Vice President J.D. Vance.
These dignitaries are visiting the federal capital on Friday (today) to participate in critical negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing US-Iran conflict.
In preparation for the summit, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met with US CDA Natalie Baker on Thursday to finalise the logistical and protective frameworks for the visit. Naqvi confirmed that a comprehensive plan had been devised to ensure foolproof security for all foreign guests, specifically identifying Vice President Vance, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner as the state’s special guests.
Beyond security arrangements, the minister and the CDA engaged in a detailed dialogue on the current geopolitical climate in the Middle East. Both officials welcomed the recent ceasefire and recognised the significance of high-level talks scheduled to commence in Islamabad on Friday (today).
Baker appreciated Pakistan’s sincere and constructive diplomatic efforts and its pivotal role in facilitating the peace negotiations. The meeting concluded with a thorough review of the final arrangements to ensure diplomatic proceedings in the capital are conducted seamlessly.
Meanwhile, authorities have finalised a comprehensive, multi-tiered security apparatus for the federal capital ahead of negotiations, placing the expanded Red Zone under the direct surveillance and supervision of the military.
While the army maintains overall strategic command, the interior ministry confirmed that the frontline defence of the Red Zone will be managed by a joint force of Rangers and Islamabad police.
To fortify these measures, the district administration has formally extended the Red Zone’s boundaries to encompass the corridor from Zero Point to the Faisal Mosque, ensuring a secure perimeter for the arriving foreign delegations currently being housed at a high-security five-star hotel.
To meet the heightened manpower requirements, law enforcement reinforcements have been mobilised from various provinces and districts, including specialised units from the National Highway and Motorway Police. The interior ministry has further integrated the Anti-Terrorist Squad and Anti-Riot Units into the active security grid to pre-empt and neutralise any potential threats.
Strategic logistical planning is also in effect, with the Islamabad Traffic Police enforcing a ban on heavy vehicles and implementing temporary closures of the Islamabad and Srinagar Highways during the transit of foreign dignitaries from the airport.
These stringent protocols underscore the government’s commitment to maintaining an impenetrable security environment for the duration of diplomatic talks.
