ISLAMABAD: Intense diplomatic efforts are underway to arrange the second round of high-stakes negotiations between the United States and Iran.
These moves come directly under the instructions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who has assigned top priority to sustaining the fragile two-week ceasefire.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, alongside Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir, are spearheading the initiative.
The pair played a pivotal role in bridging the sides during the initial marathon sessions that lasted over 21 hours in Islamabad.
Regional sources indicate that a follow-up meeting could be hosted in Pakistan before the ceasefire expires on April 22.
Pakistan successfully mediated the initial ceasefire after weeks of back-channel contacts involving Prime Minister Sharif and Field Marshal Munir.
President Donald Trump publicly acknowledged their contributions, referring to Munir as his favourite field marshal in recent statements.
The first round of direct face-to-face talks marked the highest-level engagement between Washington and Tehran since the 1979 Iranian Revolution.
Over 300 American officials, led by Vice President JD Vance along with envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, engaged with a 70-member Iranian delegation headed by Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
Pakistani teams facilitated multiple intense and constructive rounds, often extending through sleepless nights.
Dar later stated that both sides must uphold the ceasefire commitment to maintain regional stability and prevent escalation.
He confirmed Pakistan would continue its mediating role in the coming days to keep dialogue channels open.
Field Marshal Munir personally greeted delegations upon arrival and participated actively in trilateral sessions at key venues including the Serena Hotel.
His involvement built on earlier rapport established during previous regional de-escalation efforts.
International observers noted Pakistan's emergence as a credible peace broker, enhancing its global diplomatic stature.
The talks addressed critical issues including Iran's nuclear program, uranium enrichment levels, regional proxy activities, and secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
No final agreement emerged from the initial round, yet both parties left doors open for continued engagement.
Sources familiar with the process revealed that technical experts from all sides remained in contact post the first sessions.
Pakistan's leadership views the upcoming second round as essential to convert the temporary truce into a durable peace framework.
Security arrangements in the capital were heightened during the first round, reflecting the high stakes involved.
Analysts highlight that successful mediation could stabilise energy markets and reduce tensions affecting global oil supplies.
Pakistan's armed forces under Field Marshal Munir's command have demonstrated exceptional coordination in supporting these diplomatic endeavours.
This reflects the strong synergy between civilian and military leadership in advancing national foreign policy objectives.
Regional media reports emphasise the high priority attached by Islamabad to preventing any vacuum that could lead to renewed hostilities.
Efforts include consultations with key stakeholders to build consensus on agenda points for the next meeting.
The process underscores Pakistan's commitment to peace and stability in West Asia, a region vital for its own economic and security interests.
Observers expect intensified shuttle diplomacy in the coming week as the April 22 deadline approaches.
Success in arranging the second round would further solidify Pakistan's position as an effective international mediator.
