Pakistan has begun high-level diplomatic talks with Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt from Sunday. Through this move, Islamabad is positioning itself as a possible venue for negotiations between the United States and Iran as the West Asia conflict continues.
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said the two-day meeting will involve foreign ministers holding “in-depth discussions on a range of issues, including efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region," according to Reuters.
These talks come as the conflict, which started on February 28 after attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran, enters its second month. The situation has raised serious concerns about regional stability, global energy supplies, and key trade routes.
Focus on Reducing Tensions and Finding Diplomatic Solutions
Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said the main goal of the meeting is to create a mechanism that can help reduce tensions and explore diplomatic solutions. “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.
Key Countries Participate in Islamabad Meeting
The talks in Islamabad include foreign ministers from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is leading the discussions, while Hakan Fidan is representing Turkey.
Ahead of the meeting, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a detailed phone call with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian. The conversation lasted more than an hour and focused on efforts to reduce tensions.
Sharif said Pakistan has been reaching out to the United States and other regional countries to promote dialogue. He described Iran as a “brotherly" country and said Islamabad is working with multiple stakeholders to facilitate negotiations and reduce hostilities.
Pezeshkian welcomed Pakistan’s efforts and thanked the country for its diplomatic role.
Pakistan Seen as Possible Venue for US-Iran Talks
Pakistan has shared a US proposal with Iran aimed at ending the conflict. It has also offered to host direct talks between Washington and Tehran, according to Reuters.
Iranian officials have suggested that any future negotiations could take place either in Pakistan or Turkey. Iran is currently reviewing a 15-point proposal from the United States. However, one Iranian official described the proposal as “one-sided and unfair."
The proposal reportedly covers key issues such as Iran’s nuclear programme, missile development, and arrangements linked to the Strait of Hormuz, an important global trade route.
Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said a direct meeting between the United States and Iran could happen in Pakistan “very soon," according to AFP.
Diplomatic Push Continues Despite Rising Military Activity
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, tensions remain high. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has expressed doubts about recent negotiations. He accused the United States of making “unreasonable demands" and taking “contradictory actions."
Iran has reportedly предложed a five-point alternative plan. This includes demands related to reparations and recognition of its control over the strategic waterway.
Meanwhile, Ishaq Dar said Iran has allowed 20 more ships under the Pakistani flag to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. He described this as a confidence-building step to support trade.
Military Build-Up Continues in the Region
At the same time, military activity in the region has increased. According to the Associated Press, US naval forces carrying around 2,500 Marines trained in amphibious operations have been deployed. In addition, about 1,000 paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division have also been sent.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States believes it can achieve its objectives without sending ground troops. Overall, the situation shows a mix of diplomatic efforts and military pressure, as countries try to prevent the conflict from expanding further.