ISLAMABAD/ TEHRAN: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday expressed cautious optimism that all sides would continue to uphold the ceasefire and translate this fragile pause into a momentum for a durable, comprehensive peace agreement.
In a post on his X handle, Shehbaz expressed the hope that the second round of talks, scheduled to be held in Islamabad, would lead to a permanent resolution of the conflict, reports APP.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Ambassador in Pakistan Reza Amiri Moghadam called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday to discuss the evolving regional situation and ongoing peace efforts. The meeting came after US President Donald Trump announced an extension in the ceasefire on Pakistan’s request, raising hopes for stability in the region.
In another development, Iran has appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to end the Middle East war, without commenting on a ceasefire extension by the US, AFP reports.
State broadcaster IRIB reported on Wednesday that the foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei was asked by journalists to comment on the truce extension, which US President Donald Trump said he approved following a request by Pakistani mediators.
“Appreciating Pakistan’s efforts to end the imposed war and establish peace”, Baqaei stressed that Tehran “is taking the necessary measures to safeguard Iran’s national interests and security”.
As part of Pakistan’s relentless diplomacy, Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Wednesday spoke with his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan.
The two leaders exchanged views on the latest regional developments and reaffirmed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in peaceful settlement of disputes, says a statement released by the DPM’s Office.
Dar expressed gratitude for gracious Turkish hospitality extended to the prime minister and Pakistani delegation, including himself, during the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF) last weekend as well as for hosting the third meeting of the R-4 on the sidelines of ADF in which the foreign ministers of Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Pakistan participated.
Dar also held a telephonic conversation with his Kyrgyz counterpart Jeenbek Kulubaev during which they exchanged views on bilateral ties and reaffirmed the strength of Pak-Kyrgyz relations, says a statement released by the Foreign Office of Pakistan.
Discussing the evolving regional situation, Kulubaev appreciated Dar’s efforts and Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting dialogue and diplomacy for regional peace and stability. Both sides agreed to remain in close contact.
The deputy prime minister also received British High Commissioner Jane Marriott on Wednesday. During the meeting, the evolving regional situation came under discussion, Sabah reports. Dar underscored Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to facilitate engagement and emphasised the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in peaceful resolution of disputes. Jane appreciated and supported Pakistan’s facilitative role in bringing the US and Iran to the negotiating table.
Meanwhile, the federal capital is in a state of high security alert as Pakistan intensifies its diplomatic role ahead of the anticipated second round of high-stakes US-Iran peace talks, reports Shakeel Anjum.
The Red Zone has been completely sealed to all unauthorised traffic, while the Metro Bus service remains temporarily suspended to ensure foolproof security during the arrival of delegations.
While several bus stations and transport terminals across the city have been closed, the Chungi No26 terminal is open to facilitate commuters.
To prevent any untoward incidents, joint security checkpoints have been established at all entry points leading to the Red Zone, with a heavy deployment of police and paramilitary personnel maintaining a strict vigil.
Amid these developments, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened a high-level consultative meeting on Wednesday, joined by senior federal ministers and top civil and military officials.
Sources indicate the session focused on reviewing the regional security landscape following the recent extension of the US-Iran ceasefire. The leadership is also evaluating Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to ensure the successful commencement of the next phase of negotiations, with the Pakistani leadership maintaining active contact with the Iranian government.
Security officials responsible for the capital’s safety confirmed that all sensitive areas were fully protected under a massive lockdown. They stated that a formidable force of over 10,000 personnel—including 4,000 Rangers and various paramilitary units mobilised from the provinces — was currently deployed. Additionally, military troops are manning the most sensitive locations.
