TODAY’S PAPER | May 11, 2026 | EPAPER

FM Dar emphasises continued dialogue and engagement to Araghchi as US-Iran talks hang in balance

Two diplomats discuss regional developments and ceasefire-related issues


Web Desk April 20, 2026 2 min read
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Iran Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Photo: Files

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar emphasised the importance of continued engagement and dialogue to his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi on Monday as talks with the United States remained uncertain.

The Foreign Office said in a post on X that FM Dar spoke with Araghchi.

"FM emphasised the importance of continued dialogue and engagement at the earliest to resolve all pending issues, in order to promote regional peace and stability. Both agreed to remain closely engaged."

The Iranian government said they discussed regional developments and ceasefire-related issues, exchanging views on ongoing coordination.

Earlier, Australian FM Penny Wong praised Pakistan’s “constructive role” in facilitating dialogue as well as its continued commitment to diplomatic efforts during a telephone call with Dar.

The FO said Wong expressed appreciation for Dar’s efforts and Pakistan’s role in promoting dialogue between Tehran and Washington.

“She commended Pakistan’s continued commitment to promoting diplomatic engagement in this regard,” the statement said.

The ministry added that FM Dar briefed Wong on the ‘Islamabad Talks’ held on April 11–12 and reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to continue encouraging dialogue and constructive engagement.

“The two leaders expressed concern over the broader implications for the global economy, particularly for developing countries, and emphasised the importance of peaceful conflict resolution,” the statement added.

 

FM Dar has received unprecedented international recognition for his diplomatic leadership, as Pakistan positioned itself at the centre of high-stakes mediation efforts during the escalating Iran-US-Israel crisis.

Over the past week, senior officials and influential voices from more than ten countries, including Saudi Arabia, Iran, the US, China, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Uzbekistan, and Egypt, have publicly acknowledged Dar's role in facilitating ceasefire negotiations.

Read: Trump sends negotiators for Islamabad Round 2

Meanwhile, Islamabad is preparing to host the second round of Iran–United States talks after Washington confirmed that a high-level delegation led by US Vice President JD Vance would arrive in Pakistan.

Pakistan emerged as a central facilitator in the sensitive diplomatic track, positioning itself as an “honest broker” amid sharply polarised positions between Washington and Tehran. While the first round underscored deep disagreements over sanctions, maritime security, and regional influence, officials suggest both sides have so far kept the channel open, even as public rhetoric has hardened ahead of the next phase of talks.

COMMENTS

Replying to X

Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.

For more information, please see our Comments FAQ