NEW DELHI: Iran has welcomed what it described as significant progress after the first day of high-level negotiations with the United States concluded in Switzerland, despite a shaky start caused by heightened rhetoric and disagreements over regional security issues. The talks, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, are expected to continue throughout the week as both sides work toward a broader peace agreement.

In a joint statement, Pakistani and Qatari mediators said Washington and Tehran had agreed on a roadmap aimed at reaching a final deal within 60 days. Technical-level discussions will continue over the coming days to address outstanding issues, including regional conflicts, sanctions, maritime security, and nuclear-related concerns.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the talks as a positive step forward, highlighting progress on efforts to end violence in Lebanon and reduce tensions in the region. The negotiations reportedly resulted in an agreement to establish a direct communication mechanism to prevent incidents in the Strait of Hormuz and a “de-confliction cell” aimed at supporting ceasefire efforts in Lebanon.

The discussions faced an early setback after comments from US President Donald Trump prompted a temporary pause in negotiations. Iranian officials briefly suspended direct participation, though talks later resumed through mediation channels facilitated by Pakistan and Qatar.

Despite the progress, ongoing fighting between Israeli forces and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement in Lebanon remains a major challenge to any lasting agreement. Diplomats acknowledged that developments on the Lebanese front will be a key test of the broader peace process.

The talks represent the most significant direct engagement between the US and Iran in years and are being closely watched by global markets and regional governments for signs of lasting stability in the Middle East.