Qatar announces start of US-Iran negotiations in Switzerland

"Specialized technical and expert working groups have been established to negotiate the provisions of a final agreement covering all aspects of the Memorandum of Understanding" between the US and Iran, Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari said in statements.

He added that follow-up groups have been formed to oversee the implementation of the memorandum and monitor progress toward the conclusion of a final agreement.

Qatar, as one of the mediating countries, will continue working with Pakistan and all concerned parties "to foster a positive environment that enables the negotiations to achieve their objectives," Ansari said.

He expressed appreciation for Pakistan, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE, and "other brotherly and friendly countries" for their contributions in the diplomatic process between Washington and Tehran.

Ansari also reiterated Doha’s "full support” for all efforts aimed at ensuring the success of the negotiations and reaching a final agreement “that promotes lasting peace, security, and stability in the region.”

Iran's state-run broadcaster IRIB earlier reported that the delegations of Iran, the US, and Qatar began a trilateral meeting to discuss a comprehensive ceasefire in Lebanon and the release of frozen Iranian assets.

US and Iranian delegations arrived early in Switzerland for technical negotiations under the memorandum of understanding that was signed on Wednesday to end the months-long Middle East conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

The talks in Burgenstock are led by US Vice President JD Vance, and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on the Iranian side, under Pakistani mediation.