Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday met US Vice President JD Vance on the sidelines of ongoing technical-level negotiations in Switzerland aimed at advancing discussions on restoring stability in West Asia. The meeting took place at Burgenstock, where multiple delegations from countries involved in the US-Iran dialogue process have gathered for diplomatic consultations.
According to Sharif’s office, the Pakistani Prime Minister arrived in Switzerland earlier in the day, accompanied by Army Chief General Asim Munir and a senior delegation. The visit comes as Pakistan seeks to position itself as a stakeholder in the broader regional peace efforts being discussed under the current negotiation framework.
Officials said the meeting between Sharif and Vance occurred alongside US-Iran technical discussions being held as part of a follow-up to a broader memorandum of understanding linked to ongoing diplomatic efforts. A statement posted on social media by Sharif’s office confirmed the interaction and described it as taking place on the margins of the negotiations. A video released by the office showed Sharif and General Munir exchanging handshakes with JD Vance, US envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner.
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The Swiss talks have drawn participation from several regional and international actors, including representatives from Iran and Qatar, as well as senior officials from Switzerland. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf is also reported to be present, while Qatar is playing a mediating role in the discussions. The presence of multiple delegations underscores the complexity of the negotiations, which are aimed at addressing tensions across West Asia.
Ahead of the meeting, Vice President Vance acknowledged Pakistan’s involvement in facilitating dialogue efforts, noting Islamabad’s engagement in the diplomatic process during an interview with Pakistani media. His remarks came as discussions continued over a 60-day negotiation window established under a recent understanding between the United States and Iran aimed at reducing regional tensions and preventing further escalation.
The talks come amid renewed volatility in the region, including reported disruptions involving the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy shipping route. While differing claims have emerged regarding the status of the waterway, the negotiations in Switzerland are being closely watched for their potential impact on energy security and regional stability. As discussions continue, Pakistan’s participation alongside key global and regional actors highlights the widening diplomatic engagement surrounding the West Asia peace process.
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