Naqvi meets Iranian ambassador ahead of expected US-Iran phase-two Islamabad talks

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held a meeting with Iranian Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghaddam ahead of the expected second phase of US-Iran talks in Islamabad.

During the meeting, both sides discussed security arrangements and other key matters related to the upcoming negotiations. They reviewed preparations in detail and stressed the importance of reducing regional tensions through diplomatic engagement and dialogue.

Naqvi informed the Iranian envoy that preparations for the phase-two Islamabad talks have been completed, with comprehensive and foolproof security arrangements in place. He reiterated that Pakistan supports dialogue-based solutions and believes lasting peace and stability in the region can only be achieved through negotiations.

The Iranian ambassador appreciated Pakistan’s positive and constructive role in facilitating dialogue and easing regional tensions.

Earlier, Naqvi also met US envoy Baker at the US Embassy in Islamabad’s Diplomatic Enclave, where both sides discussed the regional situation and Pakistan-US relations, according to the ministry.

During that meeting, Naqvi briefed Baker on security arrangements for the talks, stating that “special security measures have been made for all our distinguished guests.” He also expressed prayers for the success of the second round of talks.

The meeting was attended by FIA Director General Dr Usman Anwar, IG Rizvi, DC Memon, and Ashraf.

Naqvi and Baker had previously met on April 9 to review security arrangements ahead of the first round of talks.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said he was open to meeting senior Iranian leaders if progress is made in the upcoming Islamabad talks. He also confirmed that a US delegation, led by Vice President JD Vance, was en route to Islamabad for negotiations.

Trump said that if progress is achieved, he would consider meeting senior Iranian officials, signaling continued diplomatic engagement despite uncertainty over Iran’s participation.

On the other hand, Iranian officials said Tehran is still reviewing its options regarding dialogue with the United States and has not yet made a final decision on attending the second round of talks in Islamabad.

Meanwhile, Islamabad Police have issued an updated traffic plan ahead of the arrival of foreign delegations, announcing extensive road closures and diversions across key routes.

Under the plan, the Red Zone and Extended Red Zone will remain completely closed to all traffic. The Expressway from Koral to Zero Point will also be shut, while traffic on Srinagar Highway may face intermittent suspension.

Heavy traffic will be restricted from entering Islamabad from all directions, with authorities advising transporters to avoid the city.

For residents, alternative routes have been designated. Citizens of G-5, G-6, G-7, F-6, and F-7 are advised to use Ninth Avenue via Margalla Road for travel between Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Traffic from Faisal Avenue towards Zero Point will be diverted to Ninth Avenue.

In case of closure between Zero Point and Koral Chowk, commuters may use Ninth Avenue from Srinagar Highway and proceed via Stadium Road, Murree Road, Chandni Chowk, and Rawal Road to reach Koral.