Asian markets rose Friday as optimism over US-Iran talks buoyed equities, though higher oil prices kept inflation concerns in focus.
Investor sentiment stayed positive for a second straight day on hopes that diplomatic progress could stabilise energy supplies after weeks of turbulence from the Middle East conflict, even as crude prices ticked higher on the day.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said talks to end the war could progress, eyeing help from Pakistani mediators to help strike an agreement.
"I believe the Pakistanis will be traveling to Tehran today. So hopefully that'll advance this further," Rubio told reporters.
President Donald Trump warned on Wednesday that negotiations were on the "borderline" between a deal and renewed strikes.
