ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq – High-level talks between the United States and Iran have produced “encouraging progress,” mediators Qatar and Pakistan said in a joint statement early Monday, with both parties agreeing on a “High Level Committee” to oversee the discussions. 

A first round of talks between the US and Iran in Switzerland’s mountainside Burgenstock resort, named the Lake Lucerne Summit, concluded early on Monday. The negotiations are aimed at reaching a permanent end to the Iran war. 

“The Lake Lucerne Summit was conducted in a positive and constructive atmosphere. Encouraging progress has been made including the creation of a mechanism for further technical talks,” said a joint statement from Qatar and Pakistan at the end of the first round of talks. 

Washington and Tehran agreed to form a “High Level Committee,” which chief negotiators will submit regular reports to and attempt to resolve issues such as nuclear and sanctions. 

“The High Level Committee has agreed upon a roadmap towards reaching a final deal within 60 days, laying the foundation for the immediate commencement of further technical talks,” the statement said.

Another outcome has been the creation of a “communication line” between the US and Iran to avoid miscommunication for vehicles transiting the vital Strait of Hormuz, according to the statement. 

“Moreover, the parties agreed on the creation of a de-confliction cell, between the parties, the Lebanese Republic and facilitated by the Mediators,” the statement added, stressing that the move will ensure the termination of military operations in Lebanon as part of the US-Iran deal. 

Despite the digital signing of the memorandum, hostilities have continued in Lebanon as Israel and Hezbollah exchange heavy fire, with the two sides blaming each other for violating a ceasefire agreement.

The US delegation was led by Vice President JD Vance while Iranian chief negotiator and parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf led the Iranian side, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also present.