FO spox clears air on visa-on-arrival facility

Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi on Friday clarified that the visa-on-arrival facility provided by Pakistan for the 'Islamabad Talks' applies only to delegates and journalists from participating nations, namely Iran and the US. "This facility, extended for the duration of the talks, does not cover third-country nationals," he added.

Earlier, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said that delegates and journalists from participating nations coming to Islamabad will be issued a visa on arrival.

In a post on X today, Dar said, "Pakistan welcomes all delegates, including journalists from participating nations, travelling in relation to Islamabad Talks 2026. To this end, all airlines are requested to permit boarding to all such individuals without a visa. Immigration authorities in Pakistan will issue them a visa on arrival."

Pakistan is set to host what could prove to be one of the most consequential diplomatic engagements in recent history, as senior leaders from the US and Iran arrive in Islamabad for high-stakes negotiations following a devastating six-week war that has left thousands dead and pushed the global economy to the brink of recession.

Meanwhile, foreign delegations have begun arriving in the federal capital.

A high-level meeting chaired by Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reviewed in detail the security and administrative preparations for the talks. The briefing covered Islamabad's overall security plan, arrangements for international delegates, and coordination among key state institutions.

Speaking at the meeting, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said that hosting the US–Iran negotiations in Islamabad after the ceasefire is "an honour for Pakistan." He directed authorities to ensure exceptional hospitality and foolproof security for all visiting foreign guests.

The meeting decided that the Red Zone will be completely sealed during the talks, with entry restricted only to authorised individuals. A dedicated control room has already been established at the Ministry of Interior to monitor and manage all arrangements.

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, the Federal Interior Secretary, the Chief Commissioner, the Inspector General of Islamabad Police, the Commissioner Rawalpindi, the DG of FIA, the DC Islamabad, representatives of Rangers, the Federal Constabulary, and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs attended the session. Islamabad Police also issued a traffic advisory in view of the movement of foreign delegations in the capital.

According to a statement issued by the Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) of Islamabad, Muhammad Sarfraz Virk, diversions would be placed on Srinagar and Express Highways.