On June 21, 2026, a meeting between the Iranian negotiating team and Qatari mediators commenced in Burgenstock, Switzerland, as confirmed by the Iranian government. This meeting precedes quadrilateral talks involving Iran, the United States, Qatar, and Pakistan, scheduled for the afternoon. The discussions are part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to advance the implementation of the 14-point Islamabad Memorandum, signed on June 18, 2026.
Iranian Delegation Arrives in Switzerland
The Iranian delegation arrived in Switzerland late on June 20. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi held a bilateral meeting with Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis in Burgenstock, marking the delegation's first official engagement. The meeting underscored continued diplomatic consultations on bilateral and regional issues, according to the Iranian government.
Quadrilateral Talks and the Islamabad Memorandum
The Iranian government announced that a four-party meeting involving Iran, the United States, Qatar, and Pakistan will follow the bilateral consultations. Iranian officials stated that the 14-point Islamabad Memorandum will not be re-signed; instead, discussions will concentrate on implementation and follow-up mechanisms. The memorandum was signed on June 18 and outlines a framework for negotiations.
Strait of Hormuz Remains Closed
Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, according to a military source cited by Iranian media outlet Fars News Agency. The IRGC Navy is not issuing any permits for vessel passage until further notice. This development adds a layer of tension to the diplomatic proceedings.
US Delegation Led by Vice President Vance
The Swiss Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the US delegation, led by US Vice-President JD Vance, and the Iranian delegation, led by Speaker of the Iranian Parliament Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, have arrived at the Burgenstock resort. Mediators from Pakistan and Qatar are also present. Talks between the parties are set to begin on Sunday, June 21.
Background and Previous Negotiations
The Islamabad Memorandum, signed on June 18, serves as a basis for the current round of talks. The Iranian government emphasized that the memorandum will not be renegotiated; the focus is on implementation and follow-up. The quadrilateral format reflects the involvement of key regional players in mediating US-Iran tensions.
