The Islamabad Talks are merely the beginning of a protracted diplomatic process: Sherry

Senator Sherry Rehman, the vice president of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), has made significant comments about the recent Islamabad Talks, highlighting the larger context and expectations surrounding the dialogue process.

She warned against expecting any quick breakthrough, saying that the 21-hour talks in Islamabad are just the beginning of what is anticipated to be a protracted diplomatic process. According to her, peace accords are the outcome of long-term, methodical negotiations rather than abrupt “black swan” incidents.

Sherry Rehman stated that an initial thaw in relations was made possible by Islamabad’s provision of a safe environment, strategic confidence, and a historic opportunity for the relevant parties. She emphasized that it is impossible to anticipate a complete agreement in the first round was completed after over 20 months.

She also underlined that diplomacy required a strong political determination to avoid confrontation, patience, trust-building, and protection from spoilers.

She claimed that Pakistan contributed positively by providing a secure channel for communication during a time of increased hostilities, with both military and civilian leadership putting forth great effort to support the negotiations and build international confidence.

Islamabad can influence the agenda, but it cannot ensure results, Rehman continued. Noting that violations in such settings are not unusual, she characterized the ceasefire as an important development.

In order to give Tehran and Washington the time they need to think things through carefully, she pleaded with the international community to let this strategic halt continue.