BÜRGENSTOCK, Switzerland, June 21, 2026(Kamran Raja): The leaders of Pakistan, the United States, and Qatar on Sunday voiced strong optimism that the ongoing Bürgenstock talks between Iran and the United States would contribute to global peace, international security, and economic prosperity, describing the diplomatic initiative as a significant step toward a more stable and cooperative Middle East. Speaking to the media before the commencement of technical-level negotiations between Iranian and American delegations, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, US Vice President JD Vance, and Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani emphasized that the joint diplomatic efforts represented the beginning of an important process aimed at achieving lasting regional and global stability. The talks, hosted and jointly facilitated by Pakistan and Qatar, are being held in continuation of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Iran and the United States to cease hostilities and negotiate a framework for durable peace and stability in the region.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed hope that the discussions would yield positive outcomes and culminate in an agreement that advances peace, progress, and prosperity worldwide. He described the negotiations as crucial for regional peace and acknowledged the role of international leadership in bringing the parties together. The Prime Minister thanked US President Donald Trump for his leadership in supporting the diplomatic process and praised Vice President JD Vance, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and Pakistan’s Syed Asim Munir for their sustained efforts in facilitating dialogue. Among those present at the opening session were Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and senior officials from participating delegations.
Vice President JD Vance praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir for their leadership and diplomatic engagement, stating that the talks would not have been possible without their efforts. He highlighted the objective of transforming relations in the Middle East through diplomacy and cooperation, replacing conflict with opportunities for peace and economic development. Describing the meeting as “historic,” Vance noted that never before had Iranian and American leadership engaged at such a high level. He reiterated the United States’ commitment to pursuing constructive engagement with Iran and expressed confidence that the negotiations would continue to make progress. Addressing regional security issues, Vance stated that the United States remains committed to achieving a broader regional ceasefire and promoting lasting peace across the Middle East.
Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani also underscored the significance of the talks, describing them as a landmark event with implications not only for regional security but also for global stability and economic growth. He commended the leadership of Pakistan, the United States, and Qatar for initiating and advancing the diplomatic process. The Bürgenstock negotiations are widely viewed as a significant diplomatic effort aimed at reducing tensions, fostering dialogue, and establishing a framework for long-term peace and cooperation in the Middle East.