Qatar confirms launch of US-Iran talks in Switzerland

Mediator Qatar has confirmed that talks between the US and Iran have started in Switzerland. 

In a statement Qatar's foreign ministry announced "the launch of the Lake Lucerne Summit and the first meeting of the high-level committee with the participation of representatives from the United States of America, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the two mediating states, the State of Qatar and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan".

Doha added it hoped the meetings would "lead to a comprehensive and lasting agreement addressing all aspects covered by the Memorandum of Understanding", referring to an accord signed by the US and Iran earlier this week.

Iranian state television also confirmed on Sunday that delegations from Iran, Qatar and the US were holding a meeting in Switzerland to discuss a ceasefire in Lebanon and Iran's frozen assets.

"A tripartite meeting involving Iran, the United States and Qatar on the subjects of a comprehensive ceasefire in Lebanon and Iran's blocked assets is currently being held at the negotiation venue," state broadcaster Irib said in a report.