US-Iran conflict resolution: Mian Zahid expresses cautious optimism over diplomacy

KARACHI: Mian Zahid Hussain, President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum & All Karachi Industrial Alliance, Chairman National Business Group Pakistan and Chairman Policy Advisory Board FPCCI, has expressed cautious optimism regarding the ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the US-Israel-Iran conflict, emphasizing that the economic survival of the region is tethered to the success of the Islamabad negotiations.

He noted that the conditional two-week ceasefire, which came into effect on April 8, 2026, has provided a critical breathing space for a world economy reeling from the volatility of energy prices.

He highlighted that during the height of the conflict, the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz—through which approximately 20% of the world’s petroleum passes—pushed global oil prices to record highs, severely impacting Pakistan’s industrial sector and cost of doing business.

Mian Zahid Hussain lauded the proactive role of Pakistan’s civil and military leadership in facilitating the ceasefire and facilitating the high-level dialogue. He specifically pointed to the significance of the “Islamabad Talks” held on April 11-12 at the Serena Hotel, which marked the first direct, high-level engagement since the 1979 Iranian Revolution, between the United States and Iran.

He noted that while the initial 21-hour marathon session concluded without a final deal, the fact that both sides agreed to remain engaged under Pakistan’s mediation is a major diplomatic victory for the country. He further underscored that the visit of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir to Tehran from April 15 to 17 was instrumental in addressing security concerns and reinforcing the trust necessary to sustain the peace process.

The veteran business leader also commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent diplomatic mission to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Türkiye, where the PM participated in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum. He stated that these visits have consolidated a regional consensus on de-escalation, ensuring that key Middle Eastern stakeholders are aligned with the peace framework. He observed that the international community, including leaders from Italy, Canada, and Austria, has formally recognized Pakistan’s pivotal role as a bridge between the warring factions.

Regarding the upcoming schedule, Mian Zahid Hussain expressed high hopes for the resumption of talks in Islamabad scheduled for Tuesday, April 21. He stressed that the stakes are incredibly high, as the 15-day ceasefire window is rapidly closing.

He urged both delegations to prioritize the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a permanent cessation of hostilities to prevent a full-scale regional catastrophe. He warned that if the Tuesday talks do not yield a concrete roadmap for sanctions relief and nuclear guarantees, the resulting uncertainty could lead to a renewed spike in global inflation.

Mian Zahid Hussain concluded by stating that Pakistan’s emergence as a central diplomatic hub not only enhances its global stature but also offers a rare opportunity to secure long-term economic stability for the entire Muslim Ummah.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026