Pakistan has stepped up both backchannel and formal diplomatic efforts on Wednesday to revive the stalled US-Iran peace process, as Iran’s ambassador in Islamabad met Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif amid rising uncertainty over the future of negotiations.

According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, Iranian Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam called on the prime minister to discuss the regional situation and ongoing peace efforts.

The statement said: “Amb. Reza Amiri Moghadam, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran, called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif on 22.4.2026 to discuss the ongoing regional situation and peace efforts.”

Although no further details were shared officially, diplomatic sources said the meeting took place at a crucial moment when uncertainty continues to surround the next round of US-Iran talks. They added that the diplomatic process was a key focus of the discussion.

Officials familiar with the matter said Pakistan is actively engaged with Iran through discreet channels, exchanging messages to encourage Tehran to return to the negotiation table. Islamabad has reportedly played an important behind-the-scenes role in facilitating contact since earlier talks failed to produce a breakthrough.

The most recent round of negotiations, scheduled for Wednesday, was postponed after Iran opted not to participate, further complicating already fragile progress. However, despite this setback, US President Donald Trump agreed to extend a temporary ceasefire with Iran at Pakistan’s request, aiming to keep diplomatic efforts alive and give Tehran more time to respond to Washington’s proposals.

Meanwhile, security in Islamabad remained tight, with key routes leading to the Red Zone still closed, suggesting preparations for possible high-level diplomatic activity.

Observers believe that although the situation remains uncertain, a limited window for renewed negotiations still exists, with Pakistan continuing to play a key facilitative role in the process.

Ishak Dar Meetings

British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, in a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, praised Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue between the US and Iran. Both sides discussed the evolving regional situation, with Dar emphasizing Pakistan’s continued efforts to promote engagement and the importance of diplomacy in resolving disputes peacefully.

The British envoy appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role in bringing the two sides to the negotiating table.

Separately, Ishaq Dar held talks with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, where both leaders discussed regional developments and reaffirmed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy for peaceful resolution of conflicts.

Dar also spoke with Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubaev. During the conversation, both sides reviewed bilateral relations and reaffirmed strong Pakistan–Kyrgyz ties. Kulubaev also appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in promoting regional peace and stability through diplomatic engagement.