Islamabad,(Parliament Times):Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Sunday called on the United States and Iran to strictly adhere to the ceasefire, stressing its importance after negotiations in Islamabad concluded without a formal agreement.
Speaking at a press conference following the departure of US Vice President JD Vance, Dar emphasized that maintaining the ceasefire is critical for regional stability. He expressed appreciation to both Washington and Tehran for responding to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s call for an immediate truce and for agreeing to participate in peace talks hosted by Pakistan.
Dar highlighted Pakistan’s mediatory role, noting that he, alongside Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, facilitated multiple rounds of intensive discussions over nearly 24 hours. While acknowledging the constructive nature of the dialogue, he said both sides must continue engaging with a positive mindset to achieve lasting peace.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment, Dar stated that Islamabad would keep supporting diplomatic efforts and dialogue between the two countries. He also briefed Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and held similar consultations with Saudi leadership, underscoring the need for sustained diplomacy.
Earlier, JD Vance confirmed that despite over 21 hours of negotiations, no agreement was reached with Iran. However, he praised Pakistan’s leadership, particularly Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Asim Munir, for their efforts in facilitating dialogue.
Vance stated that the core disagreement remained Iran’s nuclear programme, reiterating Washington’s demand for a clear commitment that Tehran would not pursue nuclear weapons or the capability to develop them quickly. He said the US had presented its “final and best offer,” but Iran declined to accept the terms.
The talks followed a two-week ceasefire announced by Shehbaz Sharif, who had invited both delegations to Islamabad for conclusive negotiations. The Iranian side was led by Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, supported by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, while the US delegation included Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
The conflict between the two sides has caused widespread devastation, with thousands killed and injured, and tensions spilling across the region, including disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
In parallel diplomatic efforts, Pakistan hosted a quadrilateral meeting involving Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, which drew international attention. Additionally, Pakistan and China jointly proposed a five-point plan aimed at promoting peace and stability in the Gulf and the wider Middle East.
Despite the lack of a breakthrough, Pakistan remains hopeful that continued dialogue will eventually lead to a durable resolution.