Talks moving ahead

CONTRARY to apprehensions expressed by different circles about possible fate of the post-accord talks between the United States and Iran, the two sides made clear progress in the first session of the high level talks under the framework of Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding – thanks to the hard work and commitment of Pakistani and Qatari mediators. Publicly, the two sides stuck to their usual rhetoric threatening to use force and other tactics to advance their objectives but it was because of their positive attitude that the mediators have reported progress including the creation of a mechanism for further technical talks. As per joint statement of Pakistan and Qatar, building on the MoU, the two sides have agreed on the establishment of a High Level Committee, which will provide political oversight on mediation. More importantly, the High Level Committee has agreed upon a roadmap towards achieving a final deal within 60 days as envisaged in the MoU. In view of the complexity and sensitivity of the issues involved, the outcome of the first session of high level talks is encouraging in that it has paved the way for immediate commencement of further technical talks. The parties and the mediators seem to be mindful to the danger of sporadic violations of the ceasefire spiraling into a serious conflict as they agreed upon establishment of a communication line between the United States and Iran to avoid incidents and miscommunication with the aim of safe passage for commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. Proper and timely usage of this mechanism could not only avert any ominous development but would also send a positive message for global trade and oil supplies through the channel. The joint statement said both sides had also agreed on the creation of a “de-confliction cell, between the parties, the Lebanese Republic and facilitated by the mediators, to ensure the adherence to the termination of military operations in Lebanon as per the MoU”. In fact, there