Pakistan intensifying diplomatic efforts to ensure US-Iran talks go ahead Tuesday

Pakistan has intensified diplomatic contacts since yesterday with Washington and Tehran to ensure talks proceed as soon as tomorrow, officials tell AP on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the press.

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker at the US Embassy in Islamabad today.

The meeting focused on strengthening Pakistan-US relations and preparations for a second round of talks scheduled to take place in Islamabad this week, Naqvi’s office says.

The statement did not specify when the talks are expected to begin.

Naqvi briefed Baker on security arrangements, saying special measures had been taken to ensure the safety of visiting delegations.

“We have made comprehensive security arrangements for our distinguished guests,” Naqvi says in the statement.

Baker offered appreciation for Pakistan’s role in easing regional tensions and efforts to facilitate dialogue.

Separately, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke by phone late Sunday with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Sharif’s office says in a statement that did not mention the planned talks.

Authorities began closing key roads and stepping up security in the capital Islamabad over the weekend, particularly around a luxury hotel where the delegations are expected to meet.

Authorities deployed troops at checkpoints, closed tourist sites, and instructed major hotels to limit bookings to ensure availability.