Pakistani government sources say that US and Iranian delegations will hold "direct" talks in Islamabad aimed at reaching a "permanent ceasefire" agreement. The talks, scheduled to begin on Saturday, could last more than a day. Pakistan is preparing to host the talks. The meeting will be held at a heavily guarded military location and organized by the Pakistani military. According to sources, there is no fixed timetable for the talks, which will include both direct and indirect contacts between delegations. "Both sides will also hold face-to-face talks and separate meetings with their Pakistani counterparts." Given the "complexity of the issue," the discussions could last "several days." Sources say, however, that for security reasons, the direct talks may not exceed two to three days. (Jin Shi)