ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has been invited to participate in upcoming talks between Iran and the United States aimed at reducing tensions between Tehran and Washington, the Foreign Office confirmed on Tuesday.
Responding to a media query, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said Pakistan had formally received an invitation to attend the negotiations.
Diplomatic sources said Islamabad’s participation is viewed as important, as Pakistan has been quietly supporting efforts to facilitate dialogue between the two sides. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is expected to represent Pakistan at the meeting.
According to regional officials, the talks are likely to take place in Turkiye on Friday. Multiple diplomatic sources said the meeting is part of a broader effort to prevent escalation and reopen communication channels over Iran’s nuclear programme.
US media reports said Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected to meet US envoy Steve Witkoff in Istanbul to explore a possible framework for a nuclear understanding.
A regional official told international media that several countries have been invited at the foreign minister level, including Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, Oman and the United Arab Emirates.
Officials said the format of the talks is still being finalized, but Friday’s meeting is expected to serve as a starting point for sustained dialogue aimed at avoiding further conflict.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian confirmed he had directed his foreign minister to pursue negotiations that are “fair and equitable” and conducted in an environment free from threats. He said talks would proceed within the framework of Iran’s national interests.
US President Donald Trump said he remains hopeful a deal can be reached with Tehran but warned that failure could lead to serious consequences.
In a televised interview, Araghchi said Iran agrees that nuclear weapons should not exist and signaled willingness to reach an agreement, while calling for sanctions relief in return. He also warned that any military conflict would likely spread beyond Iran.
Turkiye has stepped up diplomatic engagement in recent weeks, with regional consultations aimed at lowering tensions. Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Jordan have publicly said they would not allow their territory or airspace to be used for military action against Iran.
Analysts say the Istanbul meeting could mark a critical moment in efforts to stabilize regional relations.