UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has welcomed the upcoming US-Iran talks in Islamabad, urging both sides to seize the opportunity for peace. The high-stakes negotiations come at a crucial moment following weeks of escalating tensions.
The UN chief welcomed the US-Iran talks being brokered by Pakistan, which are scheduled to begin in Islamabad over the weekend.
His spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, shared the statement during a daily press briefing, highlighting the importance of diplomatic engagement.
Guterres urged both parties to engage constructively and in good faith to achieve meaningful outcomes.
“He calls on the parties to seize this diplomatic opportunity to engage in good faith toward a lasting and comprehensive agreement,” Dujarric said.
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The goal, he added, is to ensure de-escalation and prevent a return to hostilities between the United States and Iran.
Emphasis on peaceful resolution
The UN secretary-general reiterated that there is no alternative to peaceful settlement of disputes. He stressed that all international conflicts must be resolved in accordance with international law, including the UN Charter.
The UN also confirmed that its personal envoy for the Middle East conflict, Jean Arnault, remains actively engaged in the region. Arnault is continuing efforts to support diplomacy and facilitate dialogue amid the ongoing tensions.
Talks follow fragile ceasefire
The Islamabad talks are taking place in the backdrop of a fragile two-week ceasefire announced earlier this week between Washington and Tehran.
The ceasefire aims to create space for diplomacy after weeks of heightened conflict, raising hopes that negotiations could lead to a broader and lasting agreement.
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Guterres expressed optimism that progress toward a comprehensive deal is possible if both sides commit to dialogue.
The UN’s support underscores the global significance of the talks, with Pakistan playing a central role in facilitating peace efforts between the two nations.
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