Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Thursday assured that comprehensive and foolproof security arrangements have been finalised for US and Iranian delegations arriving in the capital for high-level negotiations.
The development follows a two-week ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, endorsed by US President Donald Trump, with Islamabad selected as the venue for talks facilitated by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Iranian officials have confirmed that negotiations are scheduled to begin on Friday.
According to the White House, US Vice President JD Vance will lead the American delegation, which includes special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner. The delegation is expected to engage with Iranian representatives in Islamabad as part of efforts to stabilise the region.
Earlier in the day, Acting US Ambassador to Pakistan Natalie Baker called on Naqvi to discuss the evolving Middle East situation and review arrangements for the forthcoming talks.
During the meeting, the interior minister underscored that the visiting US officials would be treated as special guests of Pakistan, adding that all necessary measures had been taken to ensure their safety. He reiterated the government’s commitment to
providing a secure environment for the dialogue process.
The US envoy appreciated Pakistan’s proactive diplomatic role in facilitating the ceasefire and promoting regional peace.
Meanwhile, diplomatic sources indicated that several countries, including China and Russia, as well as Gulf states, are expected to participate in the talks as observers.
Iran, according to sources, is seeking a permanent ceasefire and firm guarantees to ensure lasting peace. China was also said to have played a significant role, alongside Pakistan, in persuading Tehran to agree to the truce.
In view of the high-level engagements, the government has announced a two-day public holiday in Islamabad on April 9 and 10. The district administration in Rawalpindi has also declared public holidays on the same dates to support logistical and security arrangements.
