ISLAMABAD: Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, has underscored Pakistan’s central role in facilitating the ceasefire and upcoming negotiations between the United States and Iran, expressing optimism that the process could lead to lasting peace.
In an exclusive interview with BBC World, Bilawal thanked the leadership of both countries for accepting the ceasefire and agreeing to engage in direct talks in Islamabad.
He described the development as a significant diplomatic breakthrough, achieved after weeks of sustained efforts.
He revealed that a set of 10 key points, conveyed by the Prime Minister of Pakistan on behalf of Iran to the United States, had been endorsed at the highest level in Washington as a credible foundation for negotiations. “We’ve gotten so far,” he noted, adding that the progress reflects the effectiveness of Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement.
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Bilawal pointed out that while major hostilities have ceased, including bombing in Iran and attacks across the region, some aspects of the ceasefire framework are yet to be fully implemented.
He highlighted concerns related to Lebanon and the strategic Strait of Hormuz, expressing confidence that these differences could be resolved through direct dialogue.
He emphasized that Pakistan’s role is to provide a neutral platform for engagement, stating, “Pakistan is providing a forum and a location for these two parties to have direct talks,” and described the current situation as “half full,” reflecting cautious optimism.
Bilawal further noted that the conflict’s six-week duration had inflicted significant human and economic costs globally, affecting regions from London to South Asia. He stressed that a peaceful resolution would benefit not only Pakistan but the wider international community.
Highlighting Pakistan’s diplomatic positioning, he said the country has successfully improved its global perception and continues to act as a bridge between major powers.
He recalled Pakistan’s historic role in facilitating ties between the United States and China, adding that Beijing has also contributed to the current process by endorsing elements of the ceasefire framework.
Bilawal’s remarks as reinforcing Pakistan’s emerging role as a key diplomatic facilitator, with Islamabad increasingly positioned at the center of efforts to promote dialogue and stability in a volatile geopolitical environment.
