Pakistan signals optimism on Iran after talks with US diplomat

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said on Thursday, April 23, that he hopes for “positive progress” from Iran following discussions with U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker in Islamabad, according to an official statement.

The meeting, held in Pakistan’s capital, focused in part on ongoing diplomatic efforts surrounding a second round of U.S.-Iran ceasefire talks. Those negotiations have been delayed after Tehran did not confirm when it would send its delegation, creating uncertainty around the timeline for renewed dialogue.

Naqvi emphasised that Pakistan’s leadership is actively engaged in supporting a peaceful resolution. He said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir are making efforts “at every level” to facilitate diplomacy and encourage all parties to pursue a negotiated settlement.

He also welcomed the decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to extend the ceasefire, describing it as an important step toward de-escalation and a move that could help sustain momentum for talks.

According to the statement, Baker in turn acknowledged Pakistan’s “constructive role” in promoting peace and stability amid ongoing diplomatic efforts.

By Tamilla Hasanova