Second round of US-Iran talks expected in Islamabad: China supports peace efforts

KARACHI: Pakistan is set to host a crucial second round of talks between the United States and Iran after the next three to four days, in what is being widely viewed as a significant diplomatic development aimed at sustaining momentum toward de-escalation following a temporary ceasefire.
The expected talks come after initial engagements facilitated by Pakistan helped create a rare opening for dialogue between the two long-standing adversaries. Diplomatic sources indicate that both sides have shown willingness to continue discussions, with Islamabad once again emerging as a neutral and trusted venue for high-stakes negotiations.
China has welcomed the development and expressed support for all efforts aimed at ending the conflict. Speaking at a regular press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun commended Pakistan for its “impartial and balanced mediating role” and for facilitating the temporary ceasefire between Washington and Tehran.
“China welcomes all efforts conducive to the peaceful resolution of the issue,” Guo said, underscoring Beijing’s consistent position in favor of dialogue and political solutions over confrontation.
The endorsement from China adds diplomatic weight to Pakistan’s efforts and reflects growing international confidence in Islamabad’s ability to act as a credible intermediary. Observers note that China’s support is particularly significant given its strategic ties with Iran, close partnership with Pakistan, and complex engagement with the United States.
According to reports, the second round of talks is expected to focus on technical and confidence-building measures, including mechanisms to sustain the ceasefire, reduce military tensions, and lay the groundwork for broader negotiations on contentious issues. While expectations of an immediate breakthrough remain limited, the continuation of dialogue itself is being seen as a positive step.
Pakistan’s role in facilitating these talks marks a notable moment in its diplomatic trajectory. For years, Islamabad has maintained a careful balance in its foreign relations, engaging constructively with major global powers while avoiding direct alignment in conflicts. Its ability to bring both Washington and Tehran to the negotiating table highlights a level of trust that is rare in current geopolitical conditions.
Officials familiar with the process emphasize that Pakistan’s approach has been guided by neutrality and a focus on creating space for dialogue rather than influencing outcomes. This has allowed both parties to engage without the pressure of political posturing, increasing the chances of sustained engagement.
The United States-Iran rivalry has long been a source of instability in the Middle East, with implications for global energy markets, regional security, and international diplomacy. Recent tensions had raised concerns of a broader escalation, making the ceasefire and subsequent talks a welcome development for the international community.
Analysts caution, however, that the path ahead remains complex. Deep-rooted differences between the two sides, particularly on security and strategic issues, are unlikely to be resolved quickly. The upcoming round of talks in Islamabad will therefore be a critical test of whether both sides are prepared to move beyond preliminary engagement toward more substantive discussions.
Pakistan, for its part, is expected to continue playing a facilitative role, ensuring a conducive environment for dialogue while maintaining its neutral stance. The successful hosting of consecutive rounds of talks could further enhance its global standing as a mediator and open new avenues for diplomatic engagement.
As the world watches developments closely, Islamabad’s role as a platform for dialogue underscores the importance of neutral spaces in resolving complex conflicts. With China’s backing and cautious optimism from the international community, the second round of U.S.-Iran talks may help keep alive the prospect of a broader and more durable peace process.