How Pakistan became the peacemaker

For decades, Pakistan sat on the margins of global diplomacy. But now it’s due to be the unlikely venue for another round of peace talks between the US and Iran.

We speak to the BBC’s Pakistan correspondent, Carrie Davies, to ask how the country became a trusted intermediary between the parties in this conflict, and whether it can use this moment to increase its influence on the world stage.

Producers: Cat Farnsworth, Viv Jones, Aron Keller and Xandra Ellin

Studio managers: Mike Regaard and Ricardo McCarthy

Executive producer: James Shield

Mix: Travis Evans

Senior news editor: China Collins

Photo: U.S. Vice President JD Vance with Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir after arriving for first round of talks with Iranian officials in Pakistan, April 11, 2026. Credit: Jacquelyn Martin / Reuters