Macron, Pezeshkian discuss Islamabad peace talks in phone call

PARIS: French President Emmanuel Macron held a telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, during which the two leaders discussed the Islamabad peace talks.

The call focused on ongoing diplomatic efforts and the importance of dialogue in advancing regional stability, according to official statements.

Macron emphasised the need for constructive engagement and cooperation, while President Pezeshkian shared Iran’s perspective on the peace process.

The exchange reflects continued international attention to the Islamabad talks, with both leaders expressing interest in efforts to promote peace and reduce tensions in the region.

Meanwhile, the United States has confirmed that face-to-face talks with Iran are under way in Islamabad as part of a Pakistan-mediated diplomatic process, marking a significant step in efforts to end weeks of conflict.

A senior White House official told the BBC on Saturday that trilateral talks involving US and Iranian delegations, with Pakistan acting as mediator, had entered a direct negotiation phase.

The US delegation is led by Vice President JD Vance and includes special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner. The broader team also comprises National Security Adviser Andrew Baker and Asia affairs adviser Michael Vance, along with subject-matter experts based in Islamabad and Washington.

The confirmation follows earlier indications from Pakistani government sources that negotiations had progressed beyond indirect engagement.

Diplomatic sources described the talks as having moved through multiple stages.

In the initial phase, both the US and Iranian delegations held separate meetings with Pakistan’s leadership.