ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has finalised extensive security arrangements for the arrival of senior American officials and foreign delegates ahead of high-level talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad on Friday.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi informed United States Ambassador Natalie Baker on Thursday that a comprehensive and foolproof security plan has been put in place to ensure the safety of all participants during the dialogue.
The assurance came during a meeting in Islamabad where both sides reviewed preparations for the upcoming negotiations. Naqvi said Pakistan is fully prepared to host the important diplomatic engagement and guarantee complete security for visiting dignitaries.
US Vice President JD Vance, senior American envoy Steve Witkoff and former adviser Jared Kushner are expected to arrive in Pakistan as special guests for the talks.
“We have formulated an extensive security strategy to ensure the absolute safety of all foreign delegates during their stay,” Mohsin Naqvi said.
The discussions between the Pakistani interior minister and the US ambassador also covered the current situation in the Middle East, particularly after the recent ceasefire between Iran and the United States.
Ambassador Natalie Baker welcomed the temporary ceasefire and praised Pakistan’s efforts in helping reduce tensions in the region. She said Pakistan had played a constructive and sincere role in encouraging dialogue and promoting stability.
The American envoy also appreciated Pakistan’s growing diplomatic importance in the Middle East and its role in bringing the United States and Iran closer to negotiations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Wednesday that both American and Iranian delegations are expected to arrive in Pakistan on April 10 for the high-level talks.
Addressing a federal cabinet meeting, the prime minister expressed hope that the negotiations would help secure lasting peace in the Middle East after years of conflict and instability.
Shehbaz Sharif said the recent two-week ceasefire had temporarily stopped the fighting, but stressed that the main objective was a permanent peace agreement.
The prime minister also praised Field Marshal General Asim Munir for his key role in facilitating contact between Iran and the United States and helping make the dialogue possible.
