Minister Naqvi, US ambassador discuss regional situation, Islamabad dialogue

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held a significant meeting with United States Ambassador Natalie Baker to discuss the evolving regional situation and diplomatic efforts regarding the second round of the Islamabad Talks.

During the meeting, Minister Naqvi commended US President Donald Trump’s initiative to extend the ceasefire, describing it as a welcome step and a major advancement toward de-escalating tensions. They emphasised the necessity of maintaining diplomatic channels to reach a sustainable resolution to the conflict.

The minister expressed hope for positive progress from the Iranian side as well and noted that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir are making full efforts at all levels to resolve the issue.

He voiced optimism that all parties would allow an opportunity for a peaceful, diplomatic settlement.

Ambassador Baker lauded Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting regional peace and its efforts toward conflict resolution.

The development comes a day after the New York Post reported that a second round of US-Iran talks could take place within the next three days, citing unnamed Pakistani sources and US President Donald Trump.

READ MORE: US-Iran talks could be held in next three days: Trump

“It’s possible!” Trump reportedly told the Post by text message, when asked about sources in Pakistan – which mediated the first round of talks – saying that a second round was “expected in Islamabad within the next 36 to 72 hours.”

Trump on Tuesday extended a two-week truce in the war just as it was about to expire. A digital news outlet in Pakistan, News Post, reported the three-day time frame for more talks without a source or further details.

Meanwhile, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said on Wednesday that the Islamic republic appreciates Pakistan’s efforts to end the Middle East war, without commenting on a ceasefire extension announced by the United States.

Iranian state broadcaster IRIB reported that 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.

“While 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”.