High-level negotiations in Switzerland between the United States and Iran aimed at ending the conflict in West Asia have concluded, according to a joint statement released by mediators Pakistan and Qatar on Monday.
Negotiators were expected to hold a second day of discussions on Monday, following the first round of talks that began under strain after Tehran announced that it had once again shut the Strait of Hormuz.
The talks, which were held at Buergenstock, a Swiss mountain resort owned by Qatar, marked the start of discussions under a memorandum of understanding agreed last week, which extended a fragile ceasefire in place since April for at least another 60 days.
The US and Iran have agreed to a roadmap towards reaching a final deal within 60 days, laying the foundation for the immediate commencement of further technical talks.
The two sides have also agreed on the creation of a de-confliction cell to ensure the adherence of the termination of military operations in Lebanon.
Additionally, Tehran and Washington have established a communication line to avoid incidents and miscommunication with the aim of safe passage for commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.
The joint statement issued by Pakistan and Qatar made no reference to the release of Iranian assets, but Iranian state media said that oil and petrochem exports are waived, blockade lifted, some frozen assets released, and a major reconstruction & development plan launched for Iran.
