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Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Thursday assured “foolproof security” for foreign dignitaries as Pakistan prepares to host high-level talks between the United States and Iran following a recently agreed ceasefire.
Naqvi met US Ambassador Natalie Baker in Islamabad, where both sides discussed the evolving situation in the Middle East, welcomed the ceasefire, and reviewed Pakistan’s diplomatic role in facilitating de-escalation.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on arrangements for the high-level talks scheduled in Islamabad.
Naqvi said US Vice President JD Vance, senior officials Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner would be “our special guests.”
“A comprehensive plan has been prepared to provide foolproof security to all foreign guests in every respect,” the minister said.
The US envoy appreciated Pakistan’s sincere diplomatic efforts and its role in promoting peace.
A high-level US delegation led by Vice President JD Vance is expected to arrive in Islamabad on Thursday night, accompanied by Witkoff, Kushner, and additional officials, including security experts and support staff.
Iran’s delegation, led by Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, is also due to reach Islamabad tonight.
Talks between the US and Iranian sides are set to begin on Friday, with the central phase scheduled for Saturday. Multiple rounds of discussions are expected.
The negotiations follow a Pakistan-brokered two-week ceasefire between Washington and Tehran after hostilities that began on February 28.
Authorities have launched extensive search-and-comb operations across Islamabad and adjoining areas to ensure security during the visit.
Operations are underway in key locations, including Sabzi Mandi, Faizabad, Tarnol, Shehzad Town, Hamak, Karachi Company, Pirwadhai, Noor Khan Airbase, Haji Camp, Taxila, Murree, Jhelum, Chakwal, and Attock.
Police, Rangers, the Counter-Terrorism Department, and intelligence agencies are operating in coordination to maintain heightened surveillance at transit points, residential areas, and sensitive locations.
Intelligence-based screening, verification of residential records, and monitoring of entry and exit routes have been intensified. Officials said these measures are being implemented in phases, urging citizens to cooperate.
All state-run rescue departments and hospitals have been placed on high alert, with instructions to ensure staff availability and essential supplies.
A special traffic management plan has been enforced in Islamabad due to the movement of foreign delegations.
Authorities said diversions would be placed on the Expressway, while the route from Zero Point to Coral Chowk will remain closed in both directions.
Commuters from Peshawar to Rawalpindi have been advised to use the Taxila Motorway, Chakri-Chak Beli Road, and Rawat routes. Those travelling from Lahore to Peshawar should use Rawat, Chak Beli Road, and the Taxila Motorway.
Traffic from Margalla Road to Rawalpindi has been redirected to Ninth Avenue, while vehicles from Rawalpindi to Islamabad should use Ninth Avenue via Murree Road. Traffic from Faisal Avenue to Zero Point will also be diverted to Ninth Avenue.
Entry of heavy traffic into Islamabad will remain banned until April 10, and access to the Red Zone will be completely restricted for the general public.
The district administration has announced a two-day local holiday. Schools and offices in Islamabad will remain closed on Thursday and Friday, while essential services will continue to operate.
Citizens have been advised to plan travel with extra time, remain patient, and follow instructions from Islamabad Traffic Police, which will remain deployed across key routes for guidance and assistance.
