Australian FM lauds Pakistan's role in facilitating US-Iran talks in call with Dar

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong on Monday praised Pakistan’s “constructive role” in facilitating dialogue between Iran and the United States, as well as its continued commitment to diplomatic efforts, during a telephone call with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Wong expressed appreciation for Dar’s efforts and Pakistan’s role in promoting dialogue between Tehran and Washington. “She commended Pakistan’s continued commitment to promoting diplomatic engagement in this regard,” the statement said. The ministry added that Dar briefed Wong on the ‘Islamabad Talks’ held on April 11–12 and reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to continue encouraging dialogue and constructive engagement. “The two leaders expressed concern over the broader implications for the global economy, particularly for developing countries, and emphasised the importance of peaceful conflict resolution,” the statement added.   Deputy Prime Minister /Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50, held a telephone conversation with Foreign Minister of Australia Penny Wong @SenatorWong. FM Wong expressed her appreciation for the DPM/FM’s efforts, as well as Pakistan’s constructive role in… pic.twitter.com/pFNZyz6LNm — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) April 20, 2026 FM Dar has received unprecedented international recognition for his diplomatic leadership, as Pakistan positioned itself at the centre of high-stakes mediation efforts during the escalating Iran-US-Israel crisis. Over the past week, senior officials and influential voices from more than ten countries, including Saudi Arabia, Iran, the US, China, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Uzbekistan, and Egypt, have publicly acknowledged Dar's role in facilitating ceasefire negotiations. Read: Trump sends negotiators for Islamabad Round 2 Meanwhile, Islamabad is preparing to host the second round of Iran–United States talks after Washington confirmed that a high-level delegation led by US Vice President JD Vance would arrive in Pakistan. Pakistan emerged as a central facilitator in the sensitive diplomatic track, positioning itself as an “honest broker” amid sharply polarised positions between Washington and Tehran. While the first round underscored deep disagreements over sanctions, maritime security, and regional influence, officials suggest both sides have so far kept the channel open, even as public rhetoric has hardened ahead of the next phase of talks.