Trump hints: New round of U.S.-Iran talks may take place within next two days
The New York Post reported on the 14th that President Trump, during an interview, indicated that a new round of negotiations between the U.S. and Iran "could take place within the next two days" in Pakistan.
This would be the second round of talks between the two countries following their ceasefire agreement. Last weekend, both sides held their first round of negotiations in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, but Iran did not accept U.S. demands, including abandoning its nuclear ambitions. After the talks broke down, Trump ordered the blockade of Iranian ports. However, communication between the two sides continues.
On Tuesday, President Trump hinted to reporters from The New York Post about the prospects for future U.S.-Iran negotiations, saying, "You should stay there (referring to Islamabad), really, because something might happen within the next two days—we're more inclined to go there (for talks)."
"Do you know why? Because (Pakistan's) General has done an excellent job." Trump was referring to General Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan.
Over recent weeks, Pakistan has emerged as a key mediator in resolving the U.S.-Iran conflict. General Munir has held multiple phone conversations with leaders from both the United States and Iran.
Additionally, other reports indicate that U.S.-Iran talks may resume: A White House official told CNBC on Tuesday that the U.S. and Iran are discussing holding a second round of negotiations, although no formal timing has yet been arranged.
Earlier Tuesday, Reuters cited statements from Pakistani and Iranian officials reporting that U.S. and Iranian envoys might return to Pakistan to continue negotiations.
An official at the Iranian Embassy in Islamabad told Reuters, "The next round of talks could take place later this week or early next week. But it hasn't been finalized yet."
A senior Pakistani official stated that Islamabad has already contacted Iranian counterparts, adding, "We've received positive feedback—they are willing to hold a second round of talks."
Trump had previously hinted on Monday that he remained open to renewed U.S.-Iran negotiations. Speaking outside the Oval Office at the White House, he said the talks had stalled over nuclear issues, but that Iran had called the U.S. on Monday morning expressing their desire to reach an agreement.
Trump said: "I can tell you, they have called us. This morning, the right people, the appropriate people, called us, and they are very, very eager to reach an agreement."
Source: rfi
Original: toutiao.com/article/1862488254733324/
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