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KARACHI: Pakistan could once again tap Iranian crude oil supplies following a temporary easing of US sanctions on Tehran, reopening the possibility of sourcing discounted crude and refining it locally to produce higher-value petroleum products. While industry experts say local refineries are technically capable of processing Iranian crude, commercial and operational challenges remain, particularly due to the high furnace oil yield and the absence of significant domestic demand for the fuel. Pakistan Refinery Ltd (PRL) had previously imported Iranian crude under a long-term contract with the National Iranian Oil Company, but purchases halted after US sanctions were imposed. Since then, no Iranian oil has been imported into the country. Commenting on the prospects for refining Iranian crude oil, a former head of a leading refinery in Karachi told Dawn that the scenarios are changing and sanctions are being lifted temporarily. The outcome remains uncertain over the next two months. Discounts, demand and tech upgrades will decide prospects for refining heavy crude grades We can refine Iranian light crude oil, but due to high furnace oil (FO) content, it is not a commercially viable option, particularly when there is no domestic market for the FO due to its negligible usage in the power sector. The most notable aspect is the price of Iranian crude oil and whether it is pegged to an international benchmark, with parity to Arab crude. If there is no discount, refining at the local refinery is not economical, he said. When asked whether India is refining Iranian crude, he said Indian refineries are mostly deep-conversion units equipped with hydrocrackers, hydrocokers, residue fluid catalytic cracking units, etc. This gives them the flexibility to process crude ranging from heavy to light grades into value-added products like diesel and petrol. If Pakistani refineries are upgraded in near future then we will have a choice to process heavy crude, he said. During the last 16 years, he said, most of the refineries have changed their crude recipe from sour heavy to light and sweet crude for the refinery economics and sustainability. Currently, local refineries are meeting the 80pc of diesel demand due to change in the crude recipe and modification. Diesel has been facing demand destruction due to high stocks. Refineries are producing diesel at maximum throughput, he said. Pakistans diesel sales in May stood at 455,000 tonnes, down 32pc year-on-year and 17pc month-on-month. Diesel production during FY25 stood at 4.958m tonnes while in July-February FY26 it was 3.787m tonnes. Import of diesel during FY25 was 2.037m tonnes while total imports during July-April FY26 were 1.239m tonnes. He said barring Pak Arab Refinery Ltd, which has a mild cracker unit other refineries in Pakistan do not have hydrocracker units. Pakistani refineries need cracking units like India. As per the quarterly report ending March 31, Pakistan Refinery Ltd is reportedly working on this as it is engaged with the government for restoration of taxable status of petroleum products and brownfield policy amendments, which remain critical for the companys sustainable operations as well as successful execution of the Refinery Expansion and Upgrade Project (REUP). PRL is committed to the REUP, which will double the refinerys crude processing capacity from 50,000 barrels per day to 100,000 barrels per day, practically eliminating high sulphur furnace oil and producing Euro V refined products. Sania Irfan of Topline Securities said Pakistan also stands to benefit on the import side. The country imported nearly 17bn worth of petroleum products and fuels in 2025. Historically, Pakistan imported Iranian crude at a discounted realised price compared to imports from Saudi Arabia and the UAE, with discounts on average during 2009-12. Even according to the latest reported prices, Iranian light and heavy crude grades are priced at discounts compared to Saudi Arabias prices. Sourcing crude oil from Iran could generate import cost savings of 170-340 million for Pakistan, assuming it imports 10-20pc of its total petroleum requirement at a discount, including freight savings. Published in Dawn, June 26 , 2026

The death toll from Venezuelas devastating earthquakes has risen to at least 164, with 971 people injured, interim president Delcy Rodriguez said on Thursday. A magnitude 7.2 earthquake hit about 160km (100 miles) west of Caracas at around 6pm on Wednesday (local time), followed less than a minute later by a magnitude 7.5 tremor, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). Venezuelas strongest earthquake since 1900 sent rescuers and locals clambering in the dark over flattened buildings, hunting for survivors and extracting people from under the ruins. Around 30 aftershocks have been recorded following the two strongest quakes, according to Rodriguez. She described La Guaira, located near the capital, as the hardest-hit region. Venezuelas interim leader had earlier declared a state of emergency as the two earthquakes caused buildings in the capital to crumble and forced the closure of the countrys main airport. High casualties and extensive damage are probable and the disaster is likely widespread, the USGS said, initially estimating the death toll would most likely range from 10,000 to 100,000. According to the USGS, the 7.5-magnitude earthquake that hit Venezuela was the most powerful since Oct 29, 1900, when a 7.7-magnitude quake hit offshore. After Wednesdays shock, some residential buildings showed large cracks and fallen walls, with dozens of others destroyed, according to AFP reporters. Local officials and witnesses reported collapsed buildings, rescues and a growing number of injured. We have buildings, homes and houses which have collapsed and we are taking care of things with everything we have available in terms of security, civil assistance, Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said on state television. The fire department, police, all have been activated. Video footage showed emergency workers climbing through the ruins of a collapsed building in the capital as night fell, while distraught relatives sought help for loved ones believed to be trapped. In Chacao, an eastern Caracas municipality, Mayor Gustavo Duque told broadcaster Globovision that two structures had collapsed, 16 people were injured and there were deaths, though he gave no figure for fatalities. Were going to do everything we can to rescue the most people possible, he said. Residents rush into streets Many Venezuelans were at home when the quakes struck during a public holiday marking an 1821 military victory that helped secure the countrys independence from Spain. As soon as it started, we began hearing people screaming, said Astrid Ramirez, a 41-year-old publicist in western Caracas. Everyone was running down the stairs. Residents across Caracas, which was also hit by a deadly magnitude 6.3 earthquake in 1967, rushed to evacuate as buildings shook. There was a very loud crash. Things fell in the house, jugs inside the refrigerator. Ive never experienced anything like it, said Coro Martinez, 56, who lives in eastern Caracas. Maria Romero, an 80-year-old pensioner in southern Caracas, said police helped her get out of her home. This earthquake was horrible, even worse than the one in 1967, she said. Another resident, a 41-year-old office worker who declined to be named, said she received an earthquake alert on her phone just before the shaking intensified. It was a normal afternoon, and suddenly my phone sounded an earthquake alert, she said. As I picked it up and started listening to what it was saying, I first felt light shaking. Then, in less than two seconds, everything started moving. Interim President Rodriguez has been running the country since the US ouster of President Nicolas Maduro in January. She has hailed a new era of cooperation with the US and other countries, especially on oil, mining and other industries. The US embassy in Caracas said it was closely monitoring the aftermath of the quake and urged citizens in the country to seek secure shelter and avoid damaged areas. US President Donald Trump said the two earthquakes had left a devastating number of deaths, without citing any official casualty figures. The two major earthquakes that just hit the great people of Venezuela are both massive in scale and have left a devastating number of deaths, Trump said in a post on Truth Social. The U.S.A. stands ready, willing, and able to help! I have instructed all agencies of our government to get ready to move quickly. We will be there for our new and great friends. Early reports are not good. The Netherlands said it would be sending a team of rescue workers to help Venezuela. The needs are immense, Foreign Trade Minister Sjoerd Sjoerdsma said in a statement, announcing a two-million-euro aid package to deploy a search and rescue team that includes rescue workers and dogs and equipment. Hospitals brace for the injured Fire trucks were seen on the streets of Caracas, where some buildings suffered significant facade damage. At Caracas Hospital de Clinicas, staff were asked to double up on the night shift to help treat the injured, a worker there said. Video filmed at the hospital showed a darkened hallway with ceiling panels hanging by cables and pieces of plaster scattered across the floor. Other videos on social media appeared to show significant damage at Venezuelas main airport, while residents reported collapsed buildings in La Guaira, a coastal city near Caracas. Reuters could not immediately verify the footage from the airport and La Guaira. Some municipalities of Caracas canceled classes and local events through Monday, as authorities began to take stock of the damage. Tsunami alert withdrawn The US Tsunami Warning System issued a tsunami threat for Puerto Rico and the US and British Virgin Islands after the earthquake, and said hazardous waves could also affect Aruba, Curacao and Bonaire. The warning was withdrawn about an hour later. Venezuela lies in a seismically active zone where the Caribbean Plate meets the South American Plate. An estimated 30,000 people were killed when a powerful quake caused widespread destruction in the cities of Merida and Caracas in 1812, according to the USGS.

Key Points Micron reported fiscal third-quarter results that topped analysts' estimates. The company has been one of the biggest beneficiaries of the AI boom, which has caused historic demand for memory. Micron's stock price is up about 700% over the past year, lifting the company'

Hours before visiting the Capitol, the president scrapped plans to sign a major housing bill, condemning “bad Republicans” for resisting his demands to ram through new voting restrictions. President Trump plunged Congress into chaos on Wednesday as he abruptly canceled the signing of a celebr

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Irans President Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday addressed a joint press briefing in Islamabad. The Iranian president is on a one-day official visit to Pakistan at PM Shehbazs invitation. The press briefing is taking place after the two leaders held a meeting at the Prime Minister House, which was followed by delegation-level talks. PM Shehbaz said he and President Pezeshkian held very productive discussions in a very cordial atmosphere. It was like a family reunion, and brothers were talking to each other with the fullest clarity and total commitment that we will do everything to strengthen our brotherly relations like never before, he remarked. He noted that Islamabad and Tehran have consistently stood by one another in difficult times, and recent events have once again demonstrated beyond any ray of doubt the enduring strength of this brotherhood, this friendship and this partnership. The premier began his speech by reciting an Iranian couplet on the themes of friendship during challenging times. PM Shehbaz described Pezeshkian as a visionary and sagacious leader of a great country, Iran. But youre a man of many talents and qualities you are calm, you are wise and you are patient, he added. Recalling the Iranian presidents past treatment of patients in hospitals, PM Shehbaz congratulated him on this very well-deserved conferment. He termed today a historic moment between Pakistan and Iran. Recalling the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding signed last week between the United States and Iran, the premier said it was a matter of great happiness that this war has come to an end, which could have engulfed the entire region and beyond. The prime minister hailed the sagacious leadership of Pezeshkian and his colleagues, and highlighted Pakistans role as an honest and sincere mediator in the US-Iran peace process. PM Shehbaz also announced he would be undertaking a visit to Tehran next week to pay respects to late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and to reaffirm and reassure Pakistans solidarity with our brotherly people of Iran. Zindabad dosti Pakistan o Iran, he concluded. At the outset of his address, PM Shehbaz referred to the US-Iran technical talks held in Switzerland and said, My dear brother, we pray to Allah Almighty that God-willing, this arrangement will usher in a new era of peace, stability and prosperity for this entire region. The prime minister also appreciated the wisdom and sagacity of Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei for guiding the Iranian nation through these very difficult and challenging times. Throughout this crisis, the entire Iranian nation, our Iranian brothers and sisters, have demonstrated their unity with honour and dignity, he observed, praising their courage as awe-inspiring. He went on to extend Pakistans deepest condolences on the loss of thousands of precious lives, including the late Khamenei, who was a great visionary leader and respected by all and sundry around the Muslim world. The premier affirmed that the people of Pakistan share the grief of Iranians and stand in complete solidarity with the people of Iran. Your happiness is our happiness. Your sorrow is our sorrow, PM Shehbaz remarked. Irans success is our success. Irans loss is our loss, he added, inserting another Persian phrase in his speech. This sentiment reflects deeply the feeling of the people of Pakistan. He highlighted that the two were far more than just neighbours and bound together by shared history, faith and culture. The premier extended his countrys gratitude to the Iranian leadership for reposing their abiding trust in Pakistan to initiate and mediate this peace process. We have done this act of mediation with fullest honesty of purpose and complete sincerity, he declared. He commended both the Iranian and US delegations for their serious and constructive participation in the Lake Lucerne Summit held in Switzerland. Mentioning the support and encouragement of many brotherly and friendly countries, PM Shehbaz thanked the Qatari emirs pivotal role and the steadfast support and encouragement of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Egypts President Abdel Fattah El Sisi. The prime minister also hailed the untiring efforts and unwavering commitment of Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir. Even during the dark days, he never wavered and, as a result, was instrumental in helping build the consensus that made this historic breakthrough possible by the grace of god, he emphasised. The premier went on to praise the dedicated efforts of Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and his team at the Foreign Office (FO), as well as the valuable contributions of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. Age-old trust President Pezeshkian began his address by reciting verses by renowned poet Allama Iqbal, which he said continued to inspire unity among Muslim nations. He said the two nations do not merely live next to each other, but they share a common destiny in the majority of their aspirations, concerns and hopes. Pakistan for us is not merely a neighbouring country; its a brotherly and friendly country and has been an amicable companion and has had deep historical, cultural, religious and popular bonds between the two nations and these bonds have brought our nations closer, he highlighted. Noting that the relations between Islamabad and Tehran have always been consolidated on the basis of mutual respect, goodwill and historical trust, Pezeshkian said the recent developments have once again showcased the consolidation of this valuable asset. The president stated: In a critical historical juncture that the region is facing a multitude of challenges, the responsible and visionary role played by Pakistan in supporting the discussions and negotiations in de-escalating and strengthening the regional stability is a manifestation of a brotherly and futuristic attitude and viewpoint by this country towards the developments in the region. He observed that Irans acceptance of Pakistans initiative was a reflection of the ancient and age-old trust that the Iranian nation has towards the nation, the government and the authorities of Pakistan. Thanking the solidarity displayed by Pakistanis and the hospitality of the leadership here, Pezeshkian said he held constructive meetings and discussions with PM Shehbaz, President Zardari and CDF Munir. In these discussions, we had many good points talks and discussed regarding the latest developments in the region and in the world and also regarding bilateral relations, he elaborated. Pezeshkian observed that the two neighbours were adamant to use the positive existing atmosphere to usher in a new era and open a new chapter in the bilateral relations between the two countries and draw new horizons and new opportunities of cooperation based on shared interests. We deeply believe that peace, stability, sustainable security, development and the welfare of nations in the strategic region of West Asia and the Persian Gulf can only be ensured through straightforward and honest discussions, intra-regional cooperation, interactions and cooperation based on mutual respect for the countries in the region, he stated. The president added, Based on this fact, we stretch our hands of friendship to establish a common understanding and build a new security structure in the region for the countries in the region. We will never let you down Addressing a delegation-level meeting earlier, PM Shehbaz said it was a great pleasure once again to welcome you to Pakistan. He said Pezeshkians acceptance of his invitation after the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding was a matter of great happiness and satisfaction for all of us. The premier requested Pezeshkian to convey his warm regards to Irans supreme leader for his sagacious leadership that Iran has been able to achieve this MoU and as a result, a ceasefire with dignity and honour. He also offered his deepest condolences on the killings of innocent Iranian brothers and sisters, children, which run into thousands of people. PM Shehbaz said: Yet, under your sagacious and very calm, visionary leadership, today, thanks to God, we are sitting here to peep into a very bright future, and I am very grateful to you and the Iranian leadership for having abiding trust in Pakistans ability to mediate with honesty and sincerity. I want to assure you that as brothers, we will never let you down, he affirmed. As they say, true brotherhood doesnt have any questions to answer. And here we are, the prime minister said. He further assured the Iranian leader that Pakistan will carry on this important role until we have everlasting peace in place, on terms and conditions which are dictated by dignity and honour. He also hailed the courage of Iranians. Highlighted the role and outstanding contribution of CDF Munir, he remarked: He has toiled and worked untiringly through the nights, through those dark days with one mission: come what may, we will do everything humanly possible to stop this war, which can burn vast swathes of land and devastate everything. The premier also appreciated the efforts of Dar and Naqvi for their fine shuttle diplomacy. In that, brother Abbas Araghchi has played a pivotal role, he said. Earlier, the Iranian president was welcomed at the Prime Ministers House with a guard of honour, and the two held a meeting before delegation-level talks. Irans Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who was at the direct talks held between the United States and Iran in Switzerland over the weekend, is also accompanying Pezeshkian during the visit. At PM House, the Iranian president engaged in a bilateral meeting with PM Shehbaz, according to the Prime Ministers Office (PMO). A statement from the PMO said that Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar were in attendance. It added that delegation-level talks would take place later. Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani and National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq were also expected to call on the Iranian president, according to the Foreign Office (FO). Irans state media IRNA reported that FM Araghchi held talks with President Zardari and PM Shehbaz only hours before Pezeshkian landed in Pakistan. Principled support for Irans peace President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed Pakistans principled support for Irans peace as President Pezeshkian paid a visit to Islamabad. In their meeting at Aiwan-i-Sadr, President Zardari welcomed his Iranian counterpart on his first state visit to Pakistan since the US-Iran war, the presidency said. The two leaders discussed bilateral relations, mainly regional peace and security, bilateral and regional connectivity, economic cooperation and other issues of mutual interest, the statement said. President Zardari noted that the visit reflected the longstanding brotherly relations between the two countries and a desire to stay together in good and bad times. He stressed that Pakistan has consistently opposed one-sided initiatives and has supported dialogue and diplomacy as the means to achieve a durable and sustainable solution to regional and global challenges. He also underscored Pakistans commitment to preserving the unity of the Muslim Ummah while maintaining strong fraternal relations with the countries of the Gulf region, the presidency said. President Zardari congratulated Pezeshkian on the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran and expressed the hope that the ongoing technical-level negotiations would culminate in permanent peace in the region. He reaffirmed Pakistans principled support for Irans peace, stability, national unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity. The president again expressed his condolences on the martyrdom of His Eminence Ali Hosseini Khamenei, who was assassinated in US-Israeli strikes on Iran, and said that Pakistan would participate in his funeral. Meanwhile, President Pezeshkian thanked Pakistan for its positive and constructive efforts in support of peace and dialogue and appreciated the support extended by Pakistan during the recent challenging circumstances, the presidency said. The Iranian president said his country attaches great importance to its relations with Pakistan and looks forward to further expanding cooperation in political, economic, security and regional matters President Zardari requested President Pezeshkian to convey his warm regards to Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei. The Iranian president was accompanied by FM Araghchi, Chief of the Presidents Office Mohsen Haji Mirzaei, Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, Chief of Political Affairs of Presidents Office Saeed Abbas Mousavi and Irans Ambassador to Pakistan Reza Amiri Moghaddam. From the Pakistani side, Deputy PM and FM Ishaq Dar, PPP Chairman and former FM Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry, Senate Chief Whip Saleem Mandviwala and ex-senator Dr Asim Hussain were present during the meeting. CDF Munir, Pezeshkian discuss peace initiatives CDF Munir called on the Iranian president, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said. They exchanged views on regional developments and peace initiatives, the ISPR said in a statement. CDF Munir, along with PM Shehbaz, had participated in the US-Iran talks in Switzerland, where they discussed a framework for regional peace. Both leaders have been involved in efforts to secure peace in the Middle East after the US-Iran war erupted on February 28 as US-Israeli strikes hit Tehran. During his meeting with the army chief, Pezeshkian appreciated Pakistans constructive and responsible role in promoting dialogue, de-escalation, and regional stability, the ISPR said. It added that he acknowledged Pakistans consistent efforts to encourage peaceful resolution of disputes and foster understanding among regional stakeholders at a time of heightened geopolitical challenges. On his part, CDF Munir reiterated Pakistans unwavering commitment to peace and stability in the region, the statement noted. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening Pakistan-Iran relations and maintaining close consultations on issues of mutual interest, with the shared objective of advancing peace, prosperity and stability across the region, it read. Iran president, FM arrive Pezeshkian and Araghchi arrived in Pakistan on separate flights earlier in the day. The Iranian president flew to the federal capital from Iran, while the foreign ministers last engagement was in Oman. President Pezeshkian, upon his arrival at the Nur Khan airbase, was received by President Zardari, PM Shehbaz, Deputy PM Dar, Naqvi, Bilawal and Ambassador Moghaddam. FM Araghchi, who had already landed in Pakistan, was also present to welcome his president. Pezeshkian was accorded a 21-gun salute, while fighter jets conducted a flypast in his honour, state-run APP reported. The president waved in response to the childrens welcoming slogans, it added. Upon his arrival at Rawalpindis Nur Khan airbase earlier in the day, Araghchi was welcomed by Dar, Naqvi and Bilawal. The leadership and people of Pakistan extend a warm welcome to Foreign Minister Araghchi and the Iranian delegation to Islamabad, the FO said. In an earlier statement, the FO noted Pezeshkians visit was his second to Pakistan in his capacity as the president of Iran. It said the visit would provide an opportunity for the two sides to review the full spectrum of bilateral relations and explore avenues for enhanced cooperation in trade, energy, border security, people-to-people exchanges and regional connectivity. It also termed the visit an important opportunity to discuss ongoing diplomatic engagements following the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, as well as regional and international developments of mutual interest. The forthcoming visit reflects the shared commitment of Pakistan and Iran to further deepen their historic and cultural ties and underscores their common aspiration for peace, stability, and sustainable progress in the region, the FO added. IHC, FCC cancel judicial work; govt tells Red Zone employees to work from home The Islamabad High Court (IHC) also cancelled judicial work for Tuesday, due to the closure of the Red Zone for the Iranian presidents visit. A notification issued by the IHC said that Tuesdays cause list had been cancelled, adding that officials were directed to work from home. However, it added that district courts would function as per routine. Similarly, the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) also announced the suspension of judicial work at its principal seat in Islamabad due to the closure of the Red Zone in Islamabad. Consequently, the cause list of the Court stands cancelled. However, all officers and staff shall work from home and shall not leave the station. Besides, all four branch registries of the court shall remain open for judicial and administrative work, the notification said. Separately, the federal government issued a notification implementing a one-day work from home directive for various ministries. According to a notification issued by Cabinet Division Secretary Kamran Ali Afzal, employees of ministries, divisions, and government offices located inside Islamabads Red Zone will work remotely. Furthermore, autonomous bodies and attached departments operating within the Red Zone will observe a full holiday. However, essential federal institutions and banks were exempted from this order. These included the Prime Ministers Office, the Senate, the National Assembly, the Cabinet Division, the Ministry of Finance and Revenue, the Federal Board of Revenue, and the ministries of foreign affairs, interior, commerce, industries, law, parliamentary affairs, and planning division, alongside all federal banking institutions. Bus stands closed All bus terminals operating in the capital were closed on Monday night as a security measure in view of the arrival of the Iranian president. Officials of the capital administration and police said that the capital police, under directives from the capital administration, approached the managements of bus terminals in the capital, including those at Faizabad and Chongi No 26, and asked them to shut down their operations before midnight. The managers were further asked to suspend their operations on Tuesday. The terminals will remain closed until the departure of the Iranian president. Besides, the Islamabad Red Zone has also been sealed as a security measure. Entry will be allowed only to concerned officials. Further, Islamabad District Magistrate Irfan Nawaz Memon ordered the immediate closure of all popular hiking routes in the city. The restriction applies to Trail 2, Trail 3, Trail 4, Trail 5, and the hiking tracks located behind Saidpur Village, remaining effective from Tuesday until further notice. US-Iran talks in Switzerland Pezeshkians visit follows key direct talks dubbed the Lake Lucerne Summit held between the United States and Iran in Switzerland, kicking off negotiations under the Islamabad MoU signed on June 18. Under the 14-point accord, Washington and Tehran agreed on a framework to end the war, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and negotiate on key issues within 60 days of the signing. The US-Iran talks in the Swiss resort of Burgenstock were mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir representing Pakistan. The Lake Lucerne Summit created a mechanism for further technical talks, which will continue this week, and also set up communication lines to end the fighting in Lebanon and to keep the vital Strait of Hormuz open. Encouraging progress has been made, the mediators said in their joint statement, including a contact channel set up to avoid incidents and miscommunication in the Strait of Hormuz. A de-confliction cell between the parties and the Lebanese authorities has also been agreed upon to prevent fighting from erupting again. Additional input from APP

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian will arrive in Pakistan today (Tuesday) on an official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. During his visit, he will meet President Asif Ali Zardari and hold talks with PM Shehbaz, according to the Foreign Office (FO). Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will call on the visiting dignitary. This will be Dr Pezeshkians second visit to Pakistan in his capacity as president of Iran, the FO said. It said the visit would provide an opportunity for the two sides to review the full spectrum of bilateral relations and explore avenues for enhanced cooperation in trade, energy, border security, people-to-people exchanges and regional connectivity. It also termed the visit an important opportunity to discuss ongoing diplomatic engagements following the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, as well as regional and international developments of mutual interest. The forthcoming visit reflects the shared commitment of Pakistan and Iran to further deepen their historic and cultural ties and underscores their common aspiration for peace, stability, and sustainable progress in the region, the FO added. IHC, FCC cancel judicial work; govt tells Red Zone employees to work from home The Islamabad High Court (IHC) also cancelled judicial work for Tuesday, due to the closure of the Red Zone for the Iranian presidents visit. A notification issued by the IHC said that Tuesdays cause list had been cancelled, adding that officials were directed to work from home. However, it added that district courts would function as per routine. Similarly, the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) also announced the suspension of judicial work at its principal seat in Islamabad due to the closure of the Red Zone in Islamabad. Consequently, the cause list of the Court stands cancelled. However, all officers and staff shall work from home and shall not leave the station. Besides, all four branch registries of the court shall remain open for judicial and administrative work, the notification said. Separately, the federal government issued a notification implementing a one-day work from home directive for various ministries. According to a notification issued by Cabinet Division Secretary Kamran Ali Afzal, employees of ministries, divisions, and government offices located inside Islamabads Red Zone will work remotely. Furthermore, autonomous bodies and attached departments operating within the Red Zone will observe a full holiday. However, essential federal institutions and banks were exempted from this order. These included the Prime Ministers Office, the Senate, the National Assembly, the Cabinet Division, the Ministry of Finance and Revenue, the Federal Board of Revenue, and the ministries of foreign affairs, interior, commerce, industries, law, parliamentary affairs, and planning division, alongside all federal banking institutions. Bus stands closed All bus terminals operating in the capital were closed on Monday night as a security measure in view of the arrival of the Iranian president. Officials of the capital administration and police said that the capital police, under directives from the capital administration, approached the managements of bus terminals in the capital, including those at Faizabad and Chongi No 26, and asked them to shut down their operations before midnight. The managers were further asked to suspend their operations on Tuesday. The terminals will remain closed until the departure of the Iranian president. Besides, the Islamabad Red Zone has also been sealed as a security measure. Entry will be allowed only to concerned officials. Further, Islamabad District Magistrate Irfan Nawaz Memon ordered the immediate closure of all popular hiking routes in the city. The restriction applies to Trail 2, Trail 3, Trail 4, Trail 5, and the hiking tracks located behind Saidpur Village, remaining effective from Tuesday until further notice. US-Iran talks in Switzerland Pezeshkians visit follows key direct talks dubbed the Lake Lucerne Summit held between the United States and Iran in Switzerland, kicking off negotiations under the Islamabad MoU signed on June 18. Under the 14-point accord, Washington and Tehran agreed on a framework to end the war, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and negotiate on key issues within 60 days of the signing. The US-Iran talks in the Swiss resort of Burgenstock were mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir representing Pakistan. The Lake Lucerne Summit created a mechanism for further technical talks, which will continue this week, and also set up communication lines to end the fighting in Lebanon and to keep the vital Strait of Hormuz open. Encouraging progress has been made, the mediators said in their joint statement, including a contact channel set up to avoid incidents and miscommunication in the Strait of Hormuz. A de-confliction cell between the parties and the Lebanese authorities has also been agreed upon to prevent fighting from erupting again. Additional input from APP

Talks between the US and Iran in Switzerlands Burgenstock have stretched into Monday, with an American official saying that several key issues, including all elements of the nuclear deal have been discussed so far. Weve had robust discussions on all elements of the nuclear deal, the official said, speaking of a key sticking point between the two sides. The official detailed that the discussion also covered clarifying some of the confusing messaging from Iran on the Strait of Hormuz and building deconfliction mechanisms to ensure the strait will remain fully open. We have also worked through deconfliction mechanisms and enforcing the ceasefire in southern Lebanon. We plan to continue working through each of these issues and using todays work as a starting point for ongoing technical talks going forward, the official said. They added, We anticipate continuing to work through the night. Genuinely mean to promote peace On Sunday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while speaking to the press in Burgenstock, praised the Iranian delegations dignity and attempts at de-escalation. I think the genuinely mean to promote peace in the region, PM Shehbaz said of the Iranian leadership, adding, So does President Trump. I have no second thoughts about the fact that he is a man of peace He has demonstrated that during the war between Pakistan and India, he said. Delegations from the US and Iran reached the Swiss resort for talks after signing a memorandum of understanding, aimed at ending a war that began in late February. PM Shehbaz also signed the interim peace deal as a mediator, and is facilitating the talks in Switzerland alongside his Qatari counterpart. PM Shehbaz was optimistic about the renewed friendship with the US, and hoped it would grow into a relationship of close coordination and cooperation between the two countries. First round of talks Closed-door quadripartite negotations between the US and Iran kicked off earlier today, with Qatar and Pakistan participating in a mediatory role. As the talks began, US President Donald Trump in a post on Truth Social had threatened Iran over unrest in Lebanon, one of the key issues on the table during todays talks. Iran must immediately stop their highly paid PROXIES in Lebanon from causing trouble. If they dont, well hit Iran very hard again, just like we did last week, only harder!!! he said. Separately in an interview with Fox News, the US president issued threats over the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, claiming that he maintains a variety of options at his disposal. Roughly 80 minutes into the talks, Iranian media reported a pause, with delegations withdrawing to hold internal consultations. Following reports of the pause, Irans chief negotiator Bagher Ghalibaf in a statement on X dismissed US threats, cautioning Washington to be careful. He vowed that Tehran stood ready to respond. Separately, Irans Fars news agency quoted Hossein Gurbanzadeh, a member of Irans negotiating team, as saying that that talks covered the issue of Tehrans frozen assets and the arrangements for their release Discussions focused on sanctions relief tied to Irans energy sector, he said, adding: In Switzerland, we discussed the temporary exemption from sanctions on oil and its derivatives, and the final draft of a proposal on this matter has been completed. Peace requires give and take Addressing the opening ceremony ahead of the closed-door talks, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hoped for an outcome that would ensure peace, progress and prosperity globally. PM Shehbaz said he was looking forward to productive talks, and expressed satisfaction that the joint efforts of everyone involved in the peace process had culminated in the meet in Burgenstock. I think here we are going to have wonderful discussions which will lead to, hopefully, very productive results in times to come, he said. He thanked US President Trump and VP JD Vance for their leadership, and praised Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir for his consistent efforts, perseverence and patience during the mediation process. US Vice President JD Vance told the press that peace requires give and take. This is a historic meet. Never before have Iranian and American leadership met at such a high level outside of Islamabad, he said. What today really represents is the beginning of a technical negotiation thats not going to solve every disagreement, but is going to allow us to sit together as teams, for the first time really in history, to figure out what matters most to the respective parties, to settle those issues, to solve those issues, and get to a better tomorrow, he told reporters. The reason why the political leadership of the respective countries is here is because we wanted to, first of all, set up the structure for these technical negotiations, and second of all, make sure that our teams have our full support and know they can always call on us to break through any barriers. Thanking US President Donald Trump for empowering us to find a diplomatic solution, Vance said a great deal had already been accomplished and the team looked forward to seeing how much more we can accomplish together. Can we change relations in the Middle East, or do we go back to doing things the old way? he said. Where Iran and the Gulf have had an unfriendly relationship, or Iran has been a driver of regional instability? We see a future where everyone can work together to promote peace and prosperity for everyone. Vance said Trump is committed to a full regional ceasefire, including Lebanon. These kinds of ceasefires are always a little bit messy, but they had seen progress over the last few days, he added. Vance also shared appreciation for PM Shehbaz and CDF Munir, saying: I have joked that I have two very, very important people in my life. An Indian and a Pakistani. The Indian is my wife, and the Pakistani is Field Marshal Munir, he said, adding that he had probably talked to Field Marshal Munir more than anyone else over the last few months. If Iran is willing to give up nuclear weapon ambitions for the long term, the US is willing to transform relations with them, he said. The president, he said, had urged him to turn over a new leaf to transform our relationship with the people of Iran, and to extend an outstretched hand. Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani also speaking at the opening ceremony, thanked both the US and Iranian delegations for their efforts to make peace in the Middle East. I think that everyone of you has highlighted how important and historic this is, not only on the security of the region but also for the security of the world and for the global economy, the Qatari PM said. I would like to thank all of you for your leadership and determination that put us in this room. This is not really the main celebration, this is just the beginning and I wish everyone all the best, Al Thani said. He added that Qatar would remain dedicated to the partnership to support mediation efforts until a solution is reached. Before the start of their remarks, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi briefly walked into the room and embraced PM Shehbaz, the White House Press Pool Reports said in a statement released on X. He was there just a short time before walking out again and did not during that time interact with Vance, who was on the other side of the room, it added. The media were ushered out of the meeting room as the talks began. Technical groups to help negotiate MoU clauses: Qatar The technical-level talks today seek to iron out the details of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Tehran and Washington to cease hostilities and negotiate a framework to end the war. Under the agreement, the US and Iran have agreed on a framework to end the war, lift the US blockade of Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Also on the table will be discussions about the unfreezing of Iranian assets and sale of Iranian oil. In a statement, the Qatari foreign ministry announced the launch of the Lucerne Lake Summit and the first high-level committee meeting between the four sides, which it hoped would lead to reaching a comprehensive and permanent agreement that addresses all aspects covered by the Memorandum of Understanding. The Qatari foreign ministry spokesman Dr Majed bin Mohammed Al-Ansari stated that technical and specialised groups have been formed to negotiate the final agreements clauses, which will cover all aspects of the Memorandum of Understanding. Additionally, follow-up groups have been established to oversee the implementation of the memorandum and track the progress achieved toward reaching the final agreement, reflecting the commitment of all parties to proceed in the negotiation process in good faith and with the goal of reaching a comprehensive and sustainable agreement. He emphasized that the State of Qatar, as one of the mediating countries, will continue to work with the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and all concerned parties to create a positive environment that enables the negotiations to achieve their goals, based on its firm belief that dialogue and diplomacy represent the optimal path for conflict resolution and dispute settlement. The Qatari foreign ministry spokesperson also appreciated the important role played by Pakistan as a partner and mediator, praising Islamabads documented and continuous efforts in supporting the negotiation process. He also expressed appreciation for Washington and Tehrans commitment to finding a diplomatic solution, and for the support provided by Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, as well as other friendly countries that contributed to creating favorable conditions to push this process forward. Delegations meet ahead of talks The quadrilateral meeting follows bilateral and tripartite meetings between the different parties participating in the talks. Iranian state television said that delegations from Iran, Qatar and the US were holding a meeting to discuss a ceasefire in Lebanon and Irans frozen assets. A tripartite meeting involving Iran, the United States and Qatar on the subjects of a comprehensive ceasefire in Lebanon and Irans blocked assets is currently being held at the negotiation venue, state broadcaster IRIB said in a report. The Foreign Office (FO) said that Pakistan would hold bilateral interactions with the participating delegations from Iran, Qatar, Switzerland and the US, to reaffirm Pakistans enduring commitment to dialogue and durable peace in the region. Ahead of the quadrilateral meeting, PM Shehbaz and CDF Munir met the US negotiating team, led by VP Vance. The Pakistani delegation also met the Iranian delegation led by Ghalibaf. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar were also part of the meeting. Delegations from the US, Iran, Qatar, and Pakistan had arrived at the venue on Sunday morning amid tight security and heavy media presence. A senior official of the Prime Ministers Office told Dawn it is not yet confirmed if the Pakistani delegation will return today, the source added. State broadcaster PTV, which is reporting live from Burgenstock, said that technical-level talks between the US and Iranian delegations could extend into tomorrow and that there was no formal timeframe announced yet, and that the discussions would continue for as long as necessary. However, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei, speaking to IRNA, said that a one-day session was planned, which is expected to feature bilateral meetings with mediators Pakistan and Qatar in the morning, followed by quadrilateral talks in the afternoon. Pakistani delegation arrives The Prime Ministers Office said PM Shehbaz and his delegation arrived in Zurich earlier on Sunday morning to participate in the talks, after which they travelled to Burgenstock, the venue for the hotly anticipated talks. State broadcaster PTV reported that the premier was accompanied by Information Minister Ataullah Tarar and other senior government officials. State media also confirmed the arrival of CDF Munir and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi at the Burgenstock resort. US, Iran teams arrive US Vice President JD Vance and Irans Parliament Speaker and head negotiator of the Iranian side Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also arrived for the talks on implementing the deal. Vance arrived at Emmen Air Base at 5:59am (08:59 PKT), according to his spokesperson. He had taken off for Switzerland on Saturday, saying negotiators would discuss Irans nuclear programme and the Lebanon ceasefire. I think were going to hopefully make progress on the nuclear issue, make progress on the Lebanon ceasefire issue. Those are the two big things that I think were to be focused on, Vance told reporters before departing from Joint Base Andrews, saying he could only join the talks for a day or two. Vance said the situation in Lebanon was actually getting better. Its going to be something were just going to have to continuously manage to ensure that Israel and Lebanon are both safe and secure, he said. The big problem is that you have somebody will shoot and then somebody will respond, and you kind of have a chicken and egg problem where youve just got to stop the shooting for long enough to get the ceasefire to keep hold. US negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff were already in Switzerland handling technical elements of the talks, Vance said earlier. Irans delegation, which landed in Switzerland in the early hours of Sunday, arrived at Burgenstock for the talks by early afternoon. Irans official news agency IRNA said the delegation was led by Ghalibaf and included Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Ali Bagheri (Deputy for International Affairs of the Supreme National Security Council Secretariat), Central Bank Governor Abdolnaser Hemmati, National Iranian Oil Company CEO Hamid Bovard, Deputy FM Kazem Gharibabad and Esmail Baqaei were also part of the team. PM Shehbaz, CDF Munir depart for talks In a statement issued in the morning, the FO said PM Shehbaz, accompanied by CDF Munir, left for Brgenstock to participate in high-level talks on the implementation of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). In its statement, the FO noted that the talks marked the first formal engagement between the US and Iran since the signing of the Islamabad MoU on June 17. It confirmed that high-level delegations from the US, Iran and Qatar will be part of the talks. Pakistan will continue to support and advance the implementation of the understandings reached between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the US, the FO affirmed. Pakistans facilitative role underscores its principled, balanced, and constructive approach throughout the crisis, including hosting earlier rounds of US-Iran talks and sustained diplomatic contacts that culminated in the Islamabad MoU. FO announces talks in Switzerland Earlier on Saturday, the FO announced that technical-level talks will be held in Buergenstock, Switzerland, on Sunday. Representatives of the United States and Iran, along with mediators from Pakistan and Qatar, will participate in the discussions, the FO said. Pakistan will continue to facilitate the process in its role as mediator, with a view to advancing the understandings reached under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Speaking to Fox News, JD Vance said negotiations with Iran are going well, but that the US has all the cards. Meanwhile, foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei announced that Iran will be sending a delegation to Switzerland, according to remarks carried by the Fars news agency. In Switzerland, we intend to press for the fulfilment of the other sides commitments and clarify how they plan to act on their obligations, Baghaei was quoted as saying, emphasising that Iran adhered to its side of the agreement, and the United States is obligated to compel the Zionist regime (Israel) to cease its attacks on Lebanon. If part of the counterparts commitments is not implemented, the entirety of the agreement will be jeopardised, the spokesperson was quoted as saying. The counterpart must take the necessary measures as soon as possible; otherwise, the agreement will be jeopardised, he added. US-Iran deal The 14-point agreement was signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, with PM Shehbaz signing as mediator. Under the deal, Tehran and Washington have agreed on a framework to end the war, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a 60-day timeline for further talks. The deal, ending more than 100 days of war, has been widely welcomed by the international community. Once a final agreement is reached on Irans nuclear ambitions, the US will also facilitate the release of a 300 billion reconstruction fund supported by regional nations, the deal says. More to follow.

Key developments: US-Iran agree to a roadmap toward a final deal within 60 days; technical-level talks to continue for the rest of the week in Switzerland US-Iran agree to set up a communication line to avoid incidents in the Strait of Hormuz; agree to a mechanism to end war in Lebanon Irans foreign minister says tireless efforts by Pakistan Qatar has delivered major progress to end Lebanon war; says Iran has secured waivers for oil and petrochemical exports, the release of some frozen assets and the launch of a reconstruction and development plan After hours-long negotiations in the Swiss resort of Burgenstock, the United States and Iran agreed on a roadmap towards reaching a final peace deal in 60 days, a joint statement issued by mediators Pakistan and Qatar said on Monday. The talks, which began on Sunday and stretched into Monday, were held under the framework of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that was signed between the two sides on Thursday. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had also signed the breakthrough interim peace deal as a mediator, marking a significant step toward ending the conflict that began in late February. The joint statement issued by Pakistan and Qatar on Monday after the second round of direct talks between the two sides the first having been held in Islamabad in April said the first session of the talks under the framework of the Islamabad MoU had concluded with the participation of representatives from Iran, the US and the mediators. The Lake Lucerne Summit was conducted in a positive and constructive atmosphere. Encouraging progress has been made, including the creation of a mechanism for further technical talks, the statement read. It added that building on the Islamabad MoU, the two sides had agreed to the establishment of a high-level committee, which will provide political oversight on the mediation. Chief negotiators will report regularly to the high-level committee and lead working groups focused on nuclear and sanctions issues, and a monitoring and dispute resolution group to ensure the effective implementation of the MoU, and on other matters, it said. According to the statement, the high-level committee had agreed on a roadmap towards reaching a final deal within 60 days, laying the foundation for the immediate commencement of further technical talks. In addition, a communication line between the US and Iran would be established for 60 days to avoid incidents and miscommunication with the aim of safe passage for commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. The joint statement said both sides had also agreed on the creation of a de-confliction cell, between the parties, the Lebanese Republic and facilitated by the mediators, to ensure the adherence to the termination of military operations in Lebanon as per the MoU. Technical talks will continue for the remainder of the week at the Burgenstock resort on all issues, it added. The mediating parties will continue to do their utmost to ensure that the negotiations continue to be conducted in a constructive atmosphere with the aim of reaching a final deal. Concluding the statement, the mediators appreciated the US and Iran for their ongoing commitment to diplomacy and a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The mediating parties further commend brotherly and friendly countries for their continued support and valuable contribution to the ongoing negotiations, the statement read. Soon after the foreign ministries of Pakistan and Qatar posted the joint statement on X, Iranian Foreign Minister shared it on his account, saying that tireless Pakistani and Qatari mediation has delivered major progress to end the Lebanon war. Oil and petrochem exports are waived, blockade lifted, some frozen assets released, and major reconstruction and development plan launched for Iran, he said. 1st real test: Lebanon deconfliction cell, he said. Earlier, an American official said several key issues, including all elements of the nuclear deal with Iran, were discussed during the talks. Weve had robust discussions on all elements of the nuclear deal, the official said, speaking of a key sticking point between the two sides. The official detailed that the discussion also covered clarifying some of the confusing messaging from Iran on the Strait of Hormuz and building deconfliction mechanisms to ensure the strait will remain fully open. We have also worked through deconfliction mechanisms and enforcing the ceasefire in southern Lebanon. We plan to continue working through each of these issues and using todays work as a starting point for ongoing technical talks going forward, the official said. Closed-door negotiations Closed-door quadripartite negotiations between the US and Iran had kicked off on Sunday, with Qatar and Pakistan participating in a mediatory role. As the talks began, US President Donald Trump, in a post on Truth Social, had threatened Iran over unrest in Lebanon, one of the key issues on the table during the talks. Iran must immediately stop their highly paid PROXIES in Lebanon from causing trouble. If they dont, well hit Iran very hard again, just like we did last week, only harder!!! he said. Separately, in an interview with Fox News, the US president issued threats over the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, claiming that he maintains a variety of options at his disposal. Roughly 80 minutes into the talks, Iranian media had reported a pause, with delegations withdrawing to hold internal consultations. Following reports of the pause, Irans chief negotiator Bagher Ghalibaf in a statement on X dismissed US threats, cautioning Washington to be careful. He vowed that Tehran stood ready to respond. Peace requires give and take Addressing the opening ceremony ahead of the closed-door talks, PM Shehbaz had hoped for an outcome that would ensure peace, progress and prosperity globally. He said he was looking forward to productive talks and expressed satisfaction that the joint efforts of everyone involved in the peace process had culminated in the meeting in Burgenstock. I think here we are going to have wonderful discussions which will lead to, hopefully, very productive results in times to come, he said. He thanked US President Trump and Vice President JD Vance for their leadership, and praised Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir for his consistent efforts, perseverance and patience during the mediation process. Meanwhile, US VP Vance told the press that peace requires give and take. This is a historic meet. Never before have Iranian and American leadership met at such a high level outside of Islamabad, he said. What today really represents is the beginning of a technical negotiation thats not going to solve every disagreement, but is going to allow us to sit together as teams, for the first time really in history, to figure out what matters most to the respective parties, to settle those issues, to solve those issues, and get to a better tomorrow, he told reporters. The reason why the political leadership of the respective countries is here is because we wanted to, first of all, set up the structure for these technical negotiations, and second of all, make sure that our teams have our full support and know they can always call on us to break through any barriers. Thanking Trump for empowering us to find a diplomatic solution, Vance said a great deal had already been accomplished and the team looked forward to seeing how much more we can accomplish together. Can we change relations in the Middle East, or do we go back to doing things the old way? he said. Where Iran and the Gulf have had an unfriendly relationship, or Iran has been a driver of regional instability? We see a future where everyone can work together to promote peace and prosperity for everyone. Vance said Trump was committed to a full regional ceasefire, including Lebanon. These kinds of ceasefires are always a little bit messy, but they had seen progress over the last few days, he added. Vance also shared appreciation for PM Shehbaz and CDF Munir, saying: I have joked that I have two very, very important people in my life. An Indian and a Pakistani. The Indian is my wife, and the Pakistani is Field Marshal Munir, he said, adding that he had probably talked to Field Marshal Munir more than anyone else over the last few months. If Iran is willing to give up nuclear weapon ambitions for the long term, the US is willing to transform relations with them, he said. The president, he said, had urged him to turn over a new leaf to transform our relationship with the people of Iran, and to extend an outstretched hand. Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, also speaking at the opening ceremony, thanked both the US and Iranian delegations for their efforts to make peace in the Middle East. I think that every one of you has highlighted how important and historic this is, not only on the security of the region but also for the security of the world and for the global economy, the Qatari PM said. I would like to thank all of you for your leadership and determination that put us in this room. This is not really the main celebration, this is just the beginning and I wish everyone all the best, Al Thani said. He added that Qatar would remain dedicated to the partnership to support mediation efforts until a solution is reached. Before the start of their remarks, Irans Araghchi briefly walked into the room and embraced PM Shehbaz, the White House Press Pool Reports said in a statement released on X. He was there just a short time before walking out again and did not during that time interact with Vance, who was on the other side of the room, it added. The media were ushered out of the meeting room as the talks began. Later, PM Shehbaz again spoke to the media and praised the Iranian delegations dignity and attempts at de-escalation. I think they genuinely mean to promote peace in the region, PM Shehbaz said of the Iranian leadership, adding, So does President Trump. I have no second thoughts about the fact that he is a man of peace He has demonstrated that during the war between Pakistan and India, he said. PM Shehbaz was optimistic about the renewed friendship with the US, and hoped it would grow into a relationship of close coordination and cooperation between the two countries. Delegations meet ahead of talks The quadrilateral meeting followed bilateral and tripartite meetings between the different parties participating in the talks. Iranian state television said that delegations from Iran, Qatar and the US were holding a meeting to discuss a ceasefire in Lebanon and Irans frozen assets. Ahead of the quadrilateral meeting, PM Shehbaz and CDF Munir met the US negotiating team, led by VP Vance. The Pakistani delegation also met the Iranian delegation led by Ghalibaf. Irans Araghchi, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar were also part of the meeting. Pakistani delegation arrives Delegations from the US, Iran, Qatar, and Pakistan had arrived at the venue on Sunday morning amid tight security and heavy media presence. The Prime Ministers Office said PM Shehbaz and his delegation arrived in Zurich earlier on Sunday morning to participate in the talks, after which they travelled to Burgenstock. State broadcaster PTV reported that the premier was accompanied by Information Minister Ataullah Tarar and other senior government officials. State media also confirmed the arrival of CDF Munir and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi at the Burgenstock resort. US, Iran teams arrive US Vice President JD Vance and Irans Parliament Speaker and head negotiator of the Iranian side Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf had also arrived for the talks on implementing the deal on Sunday. Vance arrived at Emmen Air Base at 5:59am (08:59 PKT), according to his spokesperson. He had taken off for Switzerland on Saturday, saying negotiators would discuss Irans nuclear programme and the Lebanon ceasefire. I think were going to hopefully make progress on the nuclear issue, make progress on the Lebanon ceasefire issue. Those are the two big things that I think were to be focused on, Vance told reporters before departing from Joint Base Andrews, saying he could only join the talks for a day or two. Vance said the situation in Lebanon was actually getting better. Its going to be something were just going to have to continuously manage to ensure that Israel and Lebanon are both safe and secure, he said. The big problem is that you have somebody will shoot and then somebody will respond, and you kind of have a chicken and egg problem where youve just got to stop the shooting for long enough to get the ceasefire to keep hold. US negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff were already in Switzerland handling technical elements of the talks, Vance said earlier. Irans delegation, which landed in Switzerland in the early hours of Sunday, arrived at Burgenstock for the talks by early afternoon. Irans official news agency IRNA said the delegation was led by Ghalibaf and included Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Ali Bagheri (Deputy for International Affairs of the Supreme National Security Council Secretariat), Central Bank Governor Abdolnaser Hemmati, National Iranian Oil Company CEO Hamid Bovard, Deputy FM Kazem Gharibabad and Esmail Baqaei were also part of the team. US-Iran deal The 14-point agreement was signed by Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, with PM Shehbaz signing as mediator. Under the deal, Tehran and Washington have agreed on a framework to end the war, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a 60-day timeline for further talks. The deal, ending more than 100 days of war, has been widely welcomed by the international community. Once a final agreement is reached on Irans nuclear ambitions, the US will also facilitate the release of a 300 billion reconstruction fund supported by regional nations, the deal says.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif while speaking to the press in Burgenstock, where US, Iranian, Qatari and Pakistani delegations gathered for peace talks on Sunday, praised the Iranian delegations dignity and attempts at de-escalation. I think they genuinely mean to promote peace in the region, PM Shehbaz said of the Iranian leadership, adding, So does President Trump. I have no second thoughts about the fact that he is a man of peace He has demonstrated that during the war between Pakistan and India, he said. The premier was optimistic about the renewed friendship with the US, and hoped it would grow into a relationship of close coordination and cooperation between the two countries. First round of talks Closed-door quadripartite negotations between the US and Iran kicked off earlier today, with Qatar and Pakistan participating in a mediatory role. As the talks began, US President Donald Trump in a post on Truth Social had threatened Iran over unrest in Lebanon, one of the key issues on the table during todays talks. Iran must immediately stop their highly paid PROXIES in Lebanon from causing trouble. If they dont, well hit Iran very hard again, just like we did last week, only harder!!! he said. Separately in an interview with Fox News, the US president issued threats over the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, claiming that he maintains a variety of options at his disposal. Roughly 80 minutes into the talks, Iranian media reported a pause, with delegations withdrawing to hold internal consultations. Following reports of the pause, Irans chief negotiator Bagher Ghalibaf in a statement on X dismissed US threats, cautioning Washington to be careful. He vowed that Tehran stood ready to respond. Separately, Irans Fars news agency quoted Hossein Gurbanzadeh, a member of Irans negotiating team, as saying that that talks covered the issue of Tehrans frozen assets and the arrangements for their release Discussions focused on sanctions relief tied to Irans energy sector, he said, adding: In Switzerland, we discussed the temporary exemption from sanctions on oil and its derivatives, and the final draft of a proposal on this matter has been completed. Peace requires give and take Addressing the opening ceremony ahead of the closed-door talks, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hoped for an outcome that would ensure peace, progress and prosperity globally. PM Shehbaz said he was looking forward to productive talks, and expressed satisfaction that the joint efforts of everyone involved in the peace process had culminated in the meet in Burgenstock. I think here we are going to have wonderful discussions which will lead to, hopefully, very productive results in times to come, he said. He thanked US President Trump and VP JD Vance for their leadership, and praised Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir for his consistent efforts, perseverence and patience during the mediation process. US Vice President JD Vance told the press that peace requires give and take. This is a historic meet. Never before have Iranian and American leadership met at such a high level outside of Islamabad, he said. What today really represents is the beginning of a technical negotiation thats not going to solve every disagreement, but is going to allow us to sit together as teams, for the first time really in history, to figure out what matters most to the respective parties, to settle those issues, to solve those issues, and get to a better tomorrow, he told reporters. The reason why the political leadership of the respective countries is here is because we wanted to, first of all, set up the structure for these technical negotiations, and second of all, make sure that our teams have our full support and know they can always call on us to break through any barriers. Thanking US President Donald Trump for empowering us to find a diplomatic solution, Vance said a great deal had already been accomplished and the team looked forward to seeing how much more we can accomplish together. Can we change relations in the Middle East, or do we go back to doing things the old way? he said. Where Iran and the Gulf have had an unfriendly relationship, or Iran has been a driver of regional instability? We see a future where everyone can work together to promote peace and prosperity for everyone. Vance said Trump is committed to a full regional ceasefire, including Lebanon. These kinds of ceasefires are always a little bit messy, but they had seen progress over the last few days, he added. Vance also shared appreciation for PM Shehbaz and CDF Munir, saying: I have joked that I have two very, very important people in my life. An Indian and a Pakistani. The Indian is my wife, and the Pakistani is Field Marshal Munir, he said, adding that he had probably talked to Field Marshal Munir more than anyone else over the last few months. If Iran is willing to give up nuclear weapon ambitions for the long term, the US is willing to transform relations with them, he said. The president, he said, had urged him to turn over a new leaf to transform our relationship with the people of Iran, and to extend an outstretched hand. Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani also speaking at the opening ceremony, thanked both the US and Iranian delegations for their efforts to make peace in the Middle East. I think that everyone of you has highlighted how important and historic this is, not only on the security of the region but also for the security of the world and for the global economy, the Qatari PM said. I would like to thank all of you for your leadership and determination that put us in this room. This is not really the main celebration, this is just the beginning and I wish everyone all the best, Al Thani said. He added that Qatar would remain dedicated to the partnership to support mediation efforts until a solution is reached. Before the start of their remarks, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi briefly walked into the room and embraced PM Shehbaz, the White House Press Pool Reports said in a statement released on X. He was there just a short time before walking out again and did not during that time interact with Vance, who was on the other side of the room, it added. The media were ushered out of the meeting room as the talks began. Technical groups to help negotiate MoU clauses: Qatar The technical-level talks today seek to iron out the details of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Tehran and Washington to cease hostilities and negotiate a framework to end the war. Under the agreement, the US and Iran have agreed on a framework to end the war, lift the US blockade of Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Also on the table will be discussions about the unfreezing of Iranian assets and sale of Iranian oil. In a statement, the Qatari foreign ministry announced the launch of the Lucerne Lake Summit and the first high-level committee meeting between the four sides, which it hoped would lead to reaching a comprehensive and permanent agreement that addresses all aspects covered by the Memorandum of Understanding. The Qatari foreign ministry spokesman Dr Majed bin Mohammed Al-Ansari stated that technical and specialised groups have been formed to negotiate the final agreements clauses, which will cover all aspects of the Memorandum of Understanding. Additionally, follow-up groups have been established to oversee the implementation of the memorandum and track the progress achieved toward reaching the final agreement, reflecting the commitment of all parties to proceed in the negotiation process in good faith and with the goal of reaching a comprehensive and sustainable agreement. He emphasized that the State of Qatar, as one of the mediating countries, will continue to work with the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and all concerned parties to create a positive environment that enables the negotiations to achieve their goals, based on its firm belief that dialogue and diplomacy represent the optimal path for conflict resolution and dispute settlement. The Qatari foreign ministry spokesperson also appreciated the important role played by Pakistan as a partner and mediator, praising Islamabads documented and continuous efforts in supporting the negotiation process. He also expressed appreciation for Washington and Tehrans commitment to finding a diplomatic solution, and for the support provided by Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, as well as other friendly countries that contributed to creating favorable conditions to push this process forward. Delegations meet ahead of talks The quadrilateral meeting follows bilateral and tripartite meetings between the different parties participating in the talks. Iranian state television said that delegations from Iran, Qatar and the US were holding a meeting to discuss a ceasefire in Lebanon and Irans frozen assets. A tripartite meeting involving Iran, the United States and Qatar on the subjects of a comprehensive ceasefire in Lebanon and Irans blocked assets is currently being held at the negotiation venue, state broadcaster IRIB said in a report. The Foreign Office (FO) said that Pakistan would hold bilateral interactions with the participating delegations from Iran, Qatar, Switzerland and the US, to reaffirm Pakistans enduring commitment to dialogue and durable peace in the region. Ahead of the quadrilateral meeting, PM Shehbaz and CDF Munir met the US negotiating team, led by VP Vance. The Pakistani delegation also met the Iranian delegation led by Ghalibaf. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar were also part of the meeting. Delegations from the US, Iran, Qatar, and Pakistan had arrived at the venue on Sunday morning amid tight security and heavy media presence. A senior official of the Prime Ministers Office told Dawn it is not yet confirmed if the Pakistani delegation will return today, the source added. State broadcaster PTV, which is reporting live from Burgenstock, said that technical-level talks between the US and Iranian delegations could extend into tomorrow and that there was no formal timeframe announced yet, and that the discussions would continue for as long as necessary. However, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei, speaking to IRNA, said that a one-day session was planned, which is expected to feature bilateral meetings with mediators Pakistan and Qatar in the morning, followed by quadrilateral talks in the afternoon. Pakistani delegation arrives The Prime Ministers Office said PM Shehbaz and his delegation arrived in Zurich earlier on Sunday morning to participate in the talks, after which they travelled to Burgenstock, the venue for the hotly anticipated talks. State broadcaster PTV reported that the premier was accompanied by Information Minister Ataullah Tarar and other senior government officials. State media also confirmed the arrival of CDF Munir and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi at the Burgenstock resort. US, Iran teams arrive US Vice President JD Vance and Irans Parliament Speaker and head negotiator of the Iranian side Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also arrived for the talks on implementing the deal. Vance arrived at Emmen Air Base at 5:59am (08:59 PKT), according to his spokesperson. He had taken off for Switzerland on Saturday, saying negotiators would discuss Irans nuclear programme and the Lebanon ceasefire. I think were going to hopefully make progress on the nuclear issue, make progress on the Lebanon ceasefire issue. Those are the two big things that I think were to be focused on, Vance told reporters before departing from Joint Base Andrews, saying he could only join the talks for a day or two. Vance said the situation in Lebanon was actually getting better. Its going to be something were just going to have to continuously manage to ensure that Israel and Lebanon are both safe and secure, he said. The big problem is that you have somebody will shoot and then somebody will respond, and you kind of have a chicken and egg problem where youve just got to stop the shooting for long enough to get the ceasefire to keep hold. US negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff were already in Switzerland handling technical elements of the talks, Vance said earlier. Irans delegation, which landed in Switzerland in the early hours of Sunday, arrived at Burgenstock for the talks by early afternoon. Irans official news agency IRNA said the delegation was led by Ghalibaf and included Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Ali Bagheri (Deputy for International Affairs of the Supreme National Security Council Secretariat), Central Bank Governor Abdolnaser Hemmati, National Iranian Oil Company CEO Hamid Bovard, Deputy FM Kazem Gharibabad and Esmail Baqaei were also part of the team. PM Shehbaz, CDF Munir depart for talks In a statement issued in the morning, the FO said PM Shehbaz, accompanied by CDF Munir, left for Brgenstock to participate in high-level talks on the implementation of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). In its statement, the FO noted that the talks marked the first formal engagement between the US and Iran since the signing of the Islamabad MoU on June 17. It confirmed that high-level delegations from the US, Iran and Qatar will be part of the talks. Pakistan will continue to support and advance the implementation of the understandings reached between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the US, the FO affirmed. Pakistans facilitative role underscores its principled, balanced, and constructive approach throughout the crisis, including hosting earlier rounds of US-Iran talks and sustained diplomatic contacts that culminated in the Islamabad MoU. FO announces talks in Switzerland Earlier on Saturday, the FO announced that technical-level talks will be held in Buergenstock, Switzerland, on Sunday. Representatives of the United States and Iran, along with mediators from Pakistan and Qatar, will participate in the discussions, the FO said. Pakistan will continue to facilitate the process in its role as mediator, with a view to advancing the understandings reached under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Speaking to Fox News, JD Vance said negotiations with Iran are going well, but that the US has all the cards. Meanwhile, foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei announced that Iran will be sending a delegation to Switzerland, according to remarks carried by the Fars news agency. In Switzerland, we intend to press for the fulfilment of the other sides commitments and clarify how they plan to act on their obligations, Baghaei was quoted as saying, emphasising that Iran adhered to its side of the agreement, and the United States is obligated to compel the Zionist regime (Israel) to cease its attacks on Lebanon. If part of the counterparts commitments is not implemented, the entirety of the agreement will be jeopardised, the spokesperson was quoted as saying. The counterpart must take the necessary measures as soon as possible; otherwise, the agreement will be jeopardised, he added. US-Iran deal The 14-point agreement was signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, with PM Shehbaz signing as mediator. Under the deal, Tehran and Washington have agreed on a framework to end the war, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a 60-day timeline for further talks. The deal, ending more than 100 days of war, has been widely welcomed by the international community. Once a final agreement is reached on Irans nuclear ambitions, the US will also facilitate the release of a 300 billion reconstruction fund supported by regional nations, the deal says. More to follow.

In igniting a war against Iran on Feb. 28, President Trump billed the U.S. campaign as an unprecedented step toward transforming the Middle East and terminating the threat from what he called a “wicked, radical dictatorship.” Roughly 100 days later, as the United States and Iran have reached

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Switzerland on Sunday to attend technical-level talks between Iran and the United States set for today. The development comes after the long-awaited peace deal was signed on Thursday, heralding an end to months of bitter animosity that had gripped the Middle East and plunged the world into an economic crisis. Under the agreement, the US and Iran have agreed on a framework to end the war, lift the US blockade of Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The Prime Ministers Office said Shehbaz and his delegation arrived in Zurich. Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir will also participate in the talks. Later, state broadcaster PTV reported that the premier had reached the venue in Brgenstock. The PMO had confirmed the premiers departure at around 1am. In a statement issued in the morning, the Foreign Office (FO) said PM Shehbaz, accompanied by CDF Munir, left for Brgenstock to participate in high-level talks on the implementation of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). In its statement, the FO noted that the talks marked the first formal engagement between the US and Iran since the signing of the Islamabad MoU on June 17. It confirmed that high-level delegations from the US, Iran and Qatar will be part of the talks. Pakistan will continue to support and advance the implementation of the understandings reached between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the US, the FO affirmed. It added that PM Shehbaz is also expected to hold bilateral interactions with the participating delegations from the Islamic Republic of Iran, Qatar, Switzerland and the US, to reaffirm Pakistans enduring commitment to dialogue and durable peace in the region. Pakistans facilitative role underscores its principled, balanced, and constructive approach throughout the crisis, including hosting earlier rounds of US-Iran talks and sustained diplomatic contacts that culminated in the Islamabad MoU. US Vice President JD Vance took off for Switzerland on Saturday, saying negotiators would discuss Irans nuclear programme and the Lebanon ceasefire. I think were going to hopefully make progress on the nuclear issue, make progress on the Lebanon ceasefire issue. Those are the two big things that I think were to be focused on, Vance told reporters before departing from Joint Base Andrews, saying he could only join the talks for a day or two. Vance said the situation in Lebanon was actually getting better. Its going to be something were just going to have to continuously manage to ensure that Israel and Lebanon are both safe and secure, he said. The big problem is that you have somebody will shoot and then somebody will respond, and you kind of have a chicken and egg problem where youve just got to stop the shooting for long enough to get the ceasefire to keep hold. US negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff were already in Switzerland handling technical elements of the talks, Vance said earlier. Irans delegation also landed in Switzerland, the Swiss foreign ministry said in the early hours of Sunday. The Iranian delegation is on its way to the Brgenstock as part of the implementation of the MoU signed between the United States and Iran, the ministry said on X. Irans official news agency IRNA said the delegation was led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and included Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Ali Bagheri (Deputy for International Affairs of the Supreme National Security Council Secretariat), Central Bank Governor Abdolnaser Hemmati, National Iranian Oil Company CEO Hamid Bovard, Deputy FM Kazem Gharibabad and Esmail Baqaei were also part of the team. FO announces talks in Switzerland Earlier on Saturday, the FO announced that technical-level talks will be held in Buergenstock, Switzerland, on Sunday. Representatives of the United States and Iran, along with mediators from Pakistan and Qatar, will participate in the discussions, the FO said. Pakistan will continue to facilitate the process in its role as mediator, with a view to advancing the understandings reached under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Speaking to Fox News, JD Vance said negotiations with Iran are going well, but that the US has all the cards. Meanwhile, foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei announced that Iran will be sending a delegation to Switzerland, according to remarks carried by the Fars news agency. In Switzerland, we intend to press for the fulfilment of the other sides commitments and clarify how they plan to act on their obligations, Baghaei was quoted as saying, emphasising that Iran adhered to its side of the agreement, and the United States is obligated to compel the Zionist regime (Israel) to cease its attacks on Lebanon. If part of the counterparts commitments is not implemented, the entirety of the agreement will be jeopardised, the spokesperson was quoted as saying. The counterpart must take the necessary measures as soon as possible; otherwise, the agreement will be jeopardised, he added. The 14-point agreement was signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, with PM Shehbaz signing as mediator. Under the deal, Tehran and Washington have agreed on a framework to end the war, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a 60-day timeline for further talks. The deal, ending more than 100 days of war, has been widely welcomed by the international community. Once a final agreement is reached on Irans nuclear ambitions, the US will also facilitate the release of a 300 billion reconstruction fund supported by regional nations, the deal says.

Talks between the United States and Iran have begun in Burgenstock, Switzerland, with Qatar and Pakistan participating in a mediatory role, the Qatari Foreign Ministry announced on Sunday, with the heads of each delegation expected to address the meeting. The technical-level talks today seek to iron out the details of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Tehran and Washington to cease hostilities and negotiate a framework to end the war. Under the agreement, the US and Iran have agreed on a framework to end the war, lift the US blockade of Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Also on the table will be discussions about the unfreezing of Iranian assets and sale of Iranian oil. In a statement, the Qatari foreign ministry announced the launch of the Lucerne Lake Summit and the first high-level committee meeting between the four sides, which it hoped would lead to reaching a comprehensive and permanent agreement that addresses all aspects covered by the Memorandum of Understanding. The Qatari foreign ministry spokesman Dr Majed bin Mohammed Al-Ansari stated that technical and specialised groups have been formed to negotiate the final agreements clauses, which will cover all aspects of the Memorandum of Understanding. Additionally, follow-up groups have been established to oversee the implementation of the memorandum and track the progress achieved toward reaching the final agreement, reflecting the commitment of all parties to proceed in the negotiation process in good faith and with the goal of reaching a comprehensive and sustainable agreement. He emphasized that the State of Qatar, as one of the mediating countries, will continue to work with the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and all concerned parties to create a positive environment that enables the negotiations to achieve their goals, based on its firm belief that dialogue and diplomacy represent the optimal path for conflict resolution and dispute settlement. The Qatari foreign ministry spokesperson also appreciated the important role played by Pakistan as a partner and mediator, praising Islamabads documented and continuous efforts in supporting the negotiation process. He also expressed appreciation for Washington and Tehrans commitment to finding a diplomatic solution, and for the support provided by Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, as well as other friendly countries that contributed to creating favorable conditions to push this process forward. Delegations meet ahead of talks The quadrilateral meeting follows bilateral and tripartite meetings between the different parties participating in the talks. Iranian state television said that delegations from Iran, Qatar and the US were holding a meeting to discuss a ceasefire in Lebanon and Irans frozen assets. A tripartite meeting involving Iran, the United States and Qatar on the subjects of a comprehensive ceasefire in Lebanon and Irans blocked assets is currently being held at the negotiation venue, state broadcaster IRIB said in a report. The Foreign Office (FO) said that Pakistan would hold bilateral interactions with the participating delegations from Iran, Qatar, Switzerland and the US, to reaffirm Pakistans enduring commitment to dialogue and durable peace in the region. Ahead of the quadrilateral meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir met the US negotiating team, led by Vice President JD Vance. The Pakistani delegation also met the Iranian delegation led by Parliamentary Speaker Bagher Ghalibaf. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar were also part of the meeting. Delegations from the US, Iran, Qatar, and Pakistan had arrived at the venue on Sunday morning amid tight security and heavy media presence. A senior official of the Prime Ministers Office told Dawn it is not yet confirmed if the Pakistani delegation will return today, the source added. State broadcaster PTV, which is reporting live from Burgenstock, said that technical-level talks between the US and Iranian delegations could extend into tomorrow and that there was no formal timeframe announced yet, and that the discussions would continue for as long as necessary. However, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei, speaking to IRNA, said that a one-day session was planned, which is expected to feature bilateral meetings with mediators Pakistan and Qatar in the morning, followed by quadrilateral talks in the afternoon. Pakistani delegation arrives The Prime Ministers Office said PM Shehbaz and his delegation arrived in Zurich earlier on Sunday morning to participate in the talks, after which they travelled to Burgenstock, the venue for the hotly anticipated talks. State broadcaster PTV reported that the premier was accompanied by Information Minister Ataullah Tarar and other senior government officials. State media also confirmed the arrival of CDF Munir and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi at the Burgenstock resort. US, Iran teams arrive US Vice President JD Vance and Irans Parliament Speaker and head negotiator of the Iranian side Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also arrived for the talks on implementing the deal. Vance arrived at Emmen Air Base at 5:59am (08:59 PKT), according to his spokesperson. He had taken off for Switzerland on Saturday, saying negotiators would discuss Irans nuclear programme and the Lebanon ceasefire. I think were going to hopefully make progress on the nuclear issue, make progress on the Lebanon ceasefire issue. Those are the two big things that I think were to be focused on, Vance told reporters before departing from Joint Base Andrews, saying he could only join the talks for a day or two. Vance said the situation in Lebanon was actually getting better. Its going to be something were just going to have to continuously manage to ensure that Israel and Lebanon are both safe and secure, he said. The big problem is that you have somebody will shoot and then somebody will respond, and you kind of have a chicken and egg problem where youve just got to stop the shooting for long enough to get the ceasefire to keep hold. US negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff were already in Switzerland handling technical elements of the talks, Vance said earlier. Irans delegation, which landed in Switzerland in the early hours of Sunday, arrived at Burgenstock for the talks by early afternoon. Irans official news agency IRNA said the delegation was led by Ghalibaf and included Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Ali Bagheri (Deputy for International Affairs of the Supreme National Security Council Secretariat), Central Bank Governor Abdolnaser Hemmati, National Iranian Oil Company CEO Hamid Bovard, Deputy FM Kazem Gharibabad and Esmail Baqaei were also part of the team. PM Shehbaz, CDF Munir depart for talks In a statement issued in the morning, the FO said PM Shehbaz, accompanied by CDF Munir, left for Brgenstock to participate in high-level talks on the implementation of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). In its statement, the FO noted that the talks marked the first formal engagement between the US and Iran since the signing of the Islamabad MoU on June 17. It confirmed that high-level delegations from the US, Iran and Qatar will be part of the talks. Pakistan will continue to support and advance the implementation of the understandings reached between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the US, the FO affirmed. Pakistans facilitative role underscores its principled, balanced, and constructive approach throughout the crisis, including hosting earlier rounds of US-Iran talks and sustained diplomatic contacts that culminated in the Islamabad MoU. FO announces talks in Switzerland Earlier on Saturday, the FO announced that technical-level talks will be held in Buergenstock, Switzerland, on Sunday. Representatives of the United States and Iran, along with mediators from Pakistan and Qatar, will participate in the discussions, the FO said. Pakistan will continue to facilitate the process in its role as mediator, with a view to advancing the understandings reached under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Speaking to Fox News, JD Vance said negotiations with Iran are going well, but that the US has all the cards. Meanwhile, foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei announced that Iran will be sending a delegation to Switzerland, according to remarks carried by the Fars news agency. In Switzerland, we intend to press for the fulfilment of the other sides commitments and clarify how they plan to act on their obligations, Baghaei was quoted as saying, emphasising that Iran adhered to its side of the agreement, and the United States is obligated to compel the Zionist regime (Israel) to cease its attacks on Lebanon. If part of the counterparts commitments is not implemented, the entirety of the agreement will be jeopardised, the spokesperson was quoted as saying. The counterpart must take the necessary measures as soon as possible; otherwise, the agreement will be jeopardised, he added. US-Iran deal The 14-point agreement was signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, with PM Shehbaz signing as mediator. Under the deal, Tehran and Washington have agreed on a framework to end the war, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a 60-day timeline for further talks. The deal, ending more than 100 days of war, has been widely welcomed by the international community. Once a final agreement is reached on Irans nuclear ambitions, the US will also facilitate the release of a 300 billion reconstruction fund supported by regional nations, the deal says. More to follow.