Pakistan could soon become the unlikely stage for one of the world's most sensitive diplomatic negotiations. As a high-level Iranian delegation prepares to visit Islamabad next week, diplomats believe the trip could lay the groundwork for another round of indirect talks between Iran and the United States—a development that would place Pakistan at the centre of a crucial regional peace effort.

The Iranian delegation headed by Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni is scheduled to reach Pakistan after holding the funeral ceremonies of Iran’s late Supreme Leader. The delegation will also include senior officials from the ministries of foreign affairs, trade, agriculture and infrastructure and is expected to discuss ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in trade, connectivity, tourism and people-to-people exchanges. While the delegation is expected to discuss trade, connectivity, tourism and people-to-people exchanges, diplomats believe the visit carries far greater strategic significance than the official programme suggests.

Tehran is increasingly turning to Islamabad as the preferred venue for any future indirect talks with Washington, citing Pakistan’s balanced relations with Iran, the Gulf states and the United States, diplomatic sources say. Pakistan’s Foreign Office also hinted at a possibility, acknowledging positive progress in recent talks held in Doha, and not ruling out Islamabad hosting the next phase of negotiations.

Pakistan's role in facilitating the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding alongside Qatar has already strengthened its diplomatic standing. If Islamabad hosts the next round of Iran-US talks, it will reinforce the country's growing reputation as a trusted mediator capable of bridging divides in one of the world's most volatile regions.

Whether the visit results in fresh negotiations or simply lays the groundwork for future diplomacy, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: Pakistan is no longer just observing regional politics—it is emerging as a country helping shape them.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)