ISLAMABAD, April 24 (Xinhua) -- An Iranian delegation led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected to arrive in Islamabad to hold discussions with Pakistani mediators on key preconditions before entering potential negotiations with the United States, a Pakistani official source told Xinhua on Friday.
The official, seeking anonymity, said that the Iranian side will engage with Pakistan's mediation team to deliberate on conditions for initiating formal talks with Washington.
According to the official, the discussions are expected to focus on issues, including the lifting of blockades and the release of seized ships and crew.
The official added that Tehran is seeking initial confidence-building gestures from the United States before moving toward direct engagement.
"Pakistan has remained in consistent contact with both Iran and the United States as part of its facilitation efforts," said the official, adding that, subject to progress in these preliminary discussions, the Iranian side may proceed toward direct talks with U.S. representatives.
Earlier in the day, Pakistani government sources told Xinhua that the Araghchi-led team is likely to reach Islamabad late Friday or early Saturday, accompanied by a small team.
A second round of U.S.-Iran talks is expected to be held in Islamabad following key engagements with Pakistan's mediation team, said the government source, highlighting that a U.S. logistics and security team is already in Islamabad to support the anticipated negotiations. ■
