Foreign delegations have begun arriving in the federal capital ahead of the upcoming US-Iran negotiations, a landmark diplomatic engagement scheduled to take place in Islamabad following the recently announced ceasefire.
A high-level meeting chaired by Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reviewed in detail the security and administrative preparations for the talks. The briefing covered Islamabad’s overall security plan, arrangements for international delegates, and coordination among key state institutions.
Speaking at the meeting, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said that hosting the US-Iran negotiations in Islamabad after the ceasefire is “an honour for Pakistan.” He directed authorities to ensure exceptional hospitality and foolproof security for all visiting foreign guests.
The meeting decided that the Red Zone will be completely sealed during the talks, with entry restricted only to authorised individuals. A dedicated control room has already been established at the Ministry of Interior to monitor and manage all arrangements.
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, the Federal Interior Secretary, the Chief Commissioner, the Inspector General of Islamabad Police, the Commissioner Rawalpindi, the Director General of FIA, the Deputy Commissioner Islamabad, representatives of Rangers, the Federal Constabulary, and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs attended the session.
Moreover, a further public holiday has been announced in Rawalpindi for Saturday, April 11.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Rawalpindi, Hassan Waqar Cheema, declared the holiday in light of historic diplomatic talks between the United States and Iran.
The DC has officially issued a notification confirming the closure. According to the directive, all government and private offices, as well as educational institutions, will remain closed on Saturday, April 11.
This follows an earlier two-day holiday previously announced to facilitate security arrangements across the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
Earlier, the Cabinet Division on Wednesday announced a two-day public holiday in the federal capital for April 9 and 10, as Pakistan hosts historic talks between the United States and Iran.
A formal notification had been issued regarding the public holiday. According to the directive, all government offices will remain closed on April 9 and 10.
Following the lead of the federal capital, Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi Hassan Waqar has announced a two-day public holiday for the district. Similar to Islamabad, the holiday will be observed in Rawalpindi on Thursday and Friday.