Qatar and Pakistan have announced what they described as encouraging progress in ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran, following the first round of high-level talks held in Switzerland.
In a joint statement issued after discussions at the Lake Lucerne Summit, the two mediating countries said the parties had agreed on a roadmap aimed at reaching a comprehensive agreement within 60 days.
The talks also resulted in the creation of a direct communication channel intended to prevent misunderstandings and support the safe movement of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz during the negotiation period.
According to the statement, Iran has committed to making its best efforts to facilitate safe passage for commercial shipping between the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, while discussions continue on broader regional and security issues.
US and Iranian delegations, led by Vice President JD Vance and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, held direct talks focused on implementing the memorandum of understanding signed in Islamabad earlier this month.
The parties also agreed to establish a high-level committee to oversee the negotiations and monitor the work of specialised groups dealing with issues including Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions and dispute resolution mechanisms.
In a further development, negotiators approved the creation of a de-confliction mechanism involving Lebanon and the mediating parties, aimed at supporting the continuation of a halt in military operations.
Technical discussions are expected to continue throughout the week as mediators seek to maintain momentum toward a broader agreement and a peaceful resolution to long-standing tensions between Washington and Tehran.
