Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi expressed mutual determination on Monday to combat terrorism through increased efforts and bilateral collaboration.
The Iranian president’s arrival in Islamabad earlier on Monday for a visit, against the backdrop of ongoing tensions with Israel, drew close attention from the international community.
During a joint press conference, the two leaders announced their commitment to elevate the trade volume between their nations to $10 billion, with Raisi highlighting the current volume as “unacceptable.”
“We are dedicated to enhancing relations at the highest levels. The economic and trade volume between Iran and Pakistan is not satisfactory. As a first step, we have agreed to boost trade volume between our countries to $10 billion,” stated the Iranian president.
Despite facing challenges, the Prime Minister called for further strengthening of bilateral ties, expressing optimism about the potential prosperity in border areas through increased trade.
Both leaders also emphasized the importance of mutual collaboration in trade, communications, and addressing regional challenges through dialogue.
Shehbaz also commended Iran for its stance on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging unity among Muslim nations to end the conflict.
Earlier, upon his arrival at the Prime Minister’s House, Raisi was welcomed by Minister for Housing and Works Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada. He was accorded a guard of honor by the armed forces, and anthems of both countries were played.
Welcoming Raisi to Pakistan, the Prime Minister noted him as the first foreign leader to visit the country following the general elections of February 8.
Raisi and Shehbaz later planted a sapling together to commemorate Earth Day and attended the signing ceremony of memorandums of understanding between the two countries for cooperation in various fields.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also met with the Iranian president to discuss enhancing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations across various sectors. They also exchanged views on regional and global developments, emphasizing the resolution of regional challenges through dialogue.
Despite regional tensions, Raisi’s visit underscores the significance Iran places on its relations with Pakistan. The visit, scheduled prior to recent tensions, aims to improve ties with Islamabad, strained by earlier missile strikes.
Accompanied by a high-level delegation, Raisi’s itinerary includes engagements with Pakistan’s leadership in Lahore and Karachi, with discussions focusing on enhancing cooperation in trade, connectivity, energy, agriculture, and counterterrorism efforts.
Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining its relationship with Iran despite external pressures, demonstrating its stance on bilateral engagements and regional stability.
