Expert Comments on Pakistan's Emergence as a Mediator Between the U.S. and Iran

Pakistan as a go-between the U.S. and Iran makes absolute sense. President Trump has said that Pakistan knows Iran better than most, and,  given Pakistan's proximity to the conflict, facilitating a way toward de-escalation is definitely a better option than getting entangled in the war itself.
By way of facilitating U.S.-Iran talks, Pakistan also gets to honor its security pact with Saudi Arabia. This helps Pakistan's position as a regional strategic player and also gives a boost to Pakistan's aspirations of being the net security provider in the wider region.
Bringing the United States and Iran together and serving as a host also speaks to Pakistan's judicious diplomacy. It really is cementing its position as an emerging middle power.
Pakistan's proactive engagement with the United States and President Trump over the past year is also paying off. All eyes are on the outcomes of the talks now and how Pakistan can effectively leverage this for its own interests moving forward.

(Farwa Amer is the Director of South Asia Initiatives,  Asia Society Policy Institute, New York)