Pakistan-Iran set to expand bilateral ties

Pakistan and Iran on Sunday reiterated their commitment to expand cooperation in various sectors.

Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian met President Asif Ali Zardari in Islamabad during his first official visit to Pakistan. Both leaders agreed to improve cooperation in trade, regional peace, and people-to-people exchanges. President Zardari welcomed the Iranian leader warmly, calling the two countries close friends with shared religion, culture, and mutual respect. They discussed the regional situation and stressed the need for diplomacy and peace instead of conflict.

President Zardari appreciated Iran’s support for Pakistan, especially on issues like Kashmir. He also praised Iran’s courage during the recent 12-day war with Israel and condemned Israeli aggression. President Pezeshkian thanked Pakistan for standing by Iran during difficult times and praised Islamabad’s efforts to promote dialogue and peace in the region.

Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met the Iranian president at the Prime Minister’s House. The two sides held detailed talks on expanding cooperation in trade, energy, transport, and culture. Prime Minister Shehbaz assured continued support to Iran and offered condolences over the loss of lives during the war. He also thanked Iran for its strong backing during Pakistan’s tensions with India.

The two leaders agreed to hold the 22nd session of the Pakistan-Iran Joint Economic Commission soon to boost economic ties. Meanwhile, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani met President Pezeshkian and expressed hope for more cooperation between the two nations. He said Pakistan supports peaceful solutions to all conflicts and values its long-standing friendship with Iran. The Iranian leader’s visit is expected to further strengthen deep-rooted ties between the two countries.