Pakistan had its 'finest hour of modern history' hosting US-Iran talks, says US envoy
- Says Pakistan – by having good ties with both Tehran and Washington, and being neutral in conflict – was best suited for the role
US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker lauded Pakistan for hosting historic high-level US-Iran talks, calling it Pakistan's "finest hour" for facilitating diplomacy between the adversaries.
- Pakistan's pivotal role in facilitating US-Iran diplomacy.
- The extensive security and logistical efforts for the 21-hour talks.
- Growing strategic partnership between Pakistan and the United States.
US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker on Thursday described Islamabad’s hosting of high-level talks between the United States and Iran as Pakistan’s “finest hour of modern history”, saying the country played a key role in facilitating diplomacy between the two adversaries.
Speaking at a reception hosted by the US Embassy to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence, Baker said Islamabad became the venue in April for the highest-level talks between Washington and Tehran since the 1979 Iranian Revolution.
“And then there is Islamabad’s finest hour of modern history,” Baker said in her remarks.
The event was also attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, senior government officials, diplomats, business leaders and members of civil society.
Baker said the talks involved a 21-hour diplomatic engagement and required Pakistan to deploy more than 10,000 security personnel, close roads and provide the environment necessary for the negotiations.
“Pakistan – by having good ties with both Tehran and Washington, and by playing no part in the conflict – was uniquely positioned to bring two adversaries together,” she said.
According to Baker, even many Pakistanis found it difficult to imagine such a development.
“Even many Pakistanis said it felt surreal. It was Pakistan’s moment, and Pakistan rose to it,” she said.
The US diplomat said the American mission in Pakistan played a supporting role by coordinating logistics, managing communications and assisting a large US delegation during the sensitive negotiations.
“The professionalism and quiet determination of our Pakistani partners during those days was nothing short of extraordinary. I am proud to have served alongside you,” she said.
Baker said the event marked 250 years of American independence and highlighted what she described as a growing strategic partnership between Pakistan and the United States.
She also praised the leadership of PM Shehbaz and President Donald Trump, saying bilateral ties had strengthened over the past two years through cooperation on regional security, trade and diplomacy.
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