Recent Category Articles

Latest Category News

Iranian president Pezeshkian to arrive in Pakistan today on official visit BREAKING
52
Global PK Live News 😔 Negative
Iranian president Pezeshkian to arrive in Pakistan today on official visit
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
Jun 23, 2026 at 5:32 PM
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
Have held 'robust discussions on all elements of nuclear deal', says US as talks with Iran stretch into second day BREAKING
40
Global PK Live News 😔 Negative
Have held 'robust discussions on all elements of nuclear deal', says US as talks with Iran stretch into second day
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.
Jun 22, 2026 at 3:05 PM
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.
US, Iran make 'encouraging progress' after hours-long talks in Burgenstock; agree on roadmap to reach final peace deal in 60 days BREAKING
33
Global PK Live News 😔 Negative
US, Iran make 'encouraging progress' after hours-long talks in Burgenstock; agree on roadmap to reach final peace deal in 60 days
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.
Jun 22, 2026 at 2:57 PM
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.
US, Iran genuinely want peace in the region: PM Shehbaz BREAKING
62
Global PK Live News 😔 Negative
US, Iran genuinely want peace in the region: PM Shehbaz
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.
Jun 22, 2026 at 6:29 AM
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.
Neither the War Nor Trump’s Deal Terminated the Main Threats in Iran, Analysts Say BREAKING
99
Global PK Live News 😐 Neutral
Neither the War Nor Trump’s Deal Terminated the Main Threats in Iran, Analysts Say
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
Jun 22, 2026 at 6:18 AM
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
PM Shehbaz arrives in Switzerland for Iran-US talks BREAKING
84
Global PK Live News 😔 Negative
PM Shehbaz arrives in Switzerland for Iran-US talks
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.
Jun 22, 2026 at 12:54 AM
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.
US-Iran talks mediated by Pakistan, Qatar kick off in Burgenstock BREAKING
44
Global PK Live News 😔 Negative
US-Iran talks mediated by Pakistan, Qatar kick off in Burgenstock
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.
Jun 22, 2026 at 12:50 AM
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.
PM Shehbaz, CDF Asim Munir depart for Switzerland to attend Iran-US talks BREAKING
80
Global PK Live News 😔 Negative
PM Shehbaz, CDF Asim Munir depart for Switzerland to attend Iran-US talks
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir departed early on Sunday morning for Switzerland to attend technical-level talks between Iran and the United States in Burgenstock on June 21. 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. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and COAS CDF Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir will participate in these talks, the Prime Ministers Office said in a post on X, adding that the two are accompanied by a high-level delegation. FO announces talks in Switzerland Earlier on Saturday, the Foreign Office (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. US Vice President JD Vance earlier today said he intends to travel to Switzerland for talks soon and that US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, President Donald Trumps son-in-law, are already in Switzerland for negotiations. Speaking to Fox News, he said negotiations with Iran are going well, but that the US has all the cards. Meanwhile, Iran also announced that it will be sending a delegation to Switzerland for the talks, foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said in 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 Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif 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.
Jun 21, 2026 at 11:52 AM
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir departed early on Sunday morning for Switzerland to attend technical-level talks between Iran and the United States in Burgenstock on June 21. 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. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and COAS CDF Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir will participate in these talks, the Prime Ministers Office said in a post on X, adding that the two are accompanied by a high-level delegation. FO announces talks in Switzerland Earlier on Saturday, the Foreign Office (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. US Vice President JD Vance earlier today said he intends to travel to Switzerland for talks soon and that US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, President Donald Trumps son-in-law, are already in Switzerland for negotiations. Speaking to Fox News, he said negotiations with Iran are going well, but that the US has all the cards. Meanwhile, Iran also announced that it will be sending a delegation to Switzerland for the talks, foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said in 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 Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif 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.
/* Related News Sidebar Widget Styles */ .sidebar-widget .card { transition: transform 0.2s ease-in-out, box-shadow 0.2s ease-in-out; } .sidebar-widget .card:hover { transform: translateY(-2px); box-shadow: 0 4px 15px rgba(0,0,0,0.15); } .sidebar-widget .img-fluid { width: 100%; height: auto; object-fit: cover; } .sidebar-widget .video-thumbnail { position: relative; overflow: hidden; } .sidebar-widget .video-play-button { position: absolute; top: 50%; left: 50%; transform: translate(-50%, -50%); width: 30px; height: 30px; background: rgba(0,0,0,0.7); border-radius: 50%; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; color: white; font-size: 12px; cursor: pointer; transition: all 0.3s ease; } .sidebar-widget .video-play-button:hover { background: rgba(0,0,0,0.9); transform: translate(-50%, -50%) scale(1.1); } .sidebar-widget .card-title { font-size: 0.9rem; font-weight: 600; line-height: 1.3; margin-bottom: 0.5rem; } .sidebar-widget .card-title a { color: #333; text-decoration: none; } .sidebar-widget .card-title a:hover { color: #dc3545; } /* List view styles */ .list-view { display: flex !important; flex-direction: column; gap: 1rem; } .list-view .col-md-6 { width: 100% !important; max-width: 100% !important; flex: 0 0 100% !important; } .list-view .news-card { display: flex; flex-direction: row; height: auto !important; } .list-view .news-card .image-container { width: 300px; height: 200px; flex-shrink: 0; } .list-view .news-card .card-body { flex: 1; display: flex; flex-direction: column; } @media (max-width: 768px) { .list-view .news-card { flex-direction: column; } .list-view .news-card .image-container { width: 100%; height: 200px; } }