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In a landmark development, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian jointly announced their shared goal of boosting bilateral trade to $10 billion, emphasizing deep-rooted ties and growing cooperation between Pakistan and Iran.
During a joint press stakeout in Islamabad, the two leaders expressed satisfaction over recent progress and reaffirmed their determination to strengthen ties across various sectors.
Trade Agreements Signed to Realize Economic Potential
Prime Minister Sharif noted that both countries had signed 12 key documents and MoUs, which would be transformed into actionable agreements aimed at realizing the $10 billion trade potential. He added that delegations from both sides would continue detailed meetings to operationalize the signed agreements.
The signed pacts include cooperation in:
- Plant protection and quarantine
- Science, technology, and innovation
- Information technology
- Tourism and cultural exchange
- Maritime security and firefighting
- Judicial assistance
- Youth and education exchange programs
- Product quality and inspection
- Free Trade Agreement (joint statement)
Condemnation of Israeli Aggression
Addressing broader regional concerns, Prime Minister Sharif strongly condemned Israel’s unprovoked aggression against Iran in June, terming it unjustified and dangerous. He extended condolences over the martyrdom of Iranian generals, scientists, and civilians, and lauded the Iranian leadership’s resilience and military response, which he said had exposed the Israeli defense system.
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President Pezeshkian also condemned the Israeli aggression and genocide in Gaza, stressing that Muslim unity was the need of the hour to counter destabilizing forces in the region.
Deepening Religious, Cultural, and Strategic Ties
President Pezeshkian emphasized the historic and cultural bonds between Iran and Pakistan, quoting Allama Iqbal to underscore the importance of Muslim solidarity. He said Pakistan was not just a neighbor but a brotherly nation, and enhancing cooperation with Islamabad was a priority in Iran’s neighborhood policy.
The Iranian leader expressed satisfaction over the ongoing serious efforts from both governments to deepen collaboration in economy, culture, technology, and security.
Security and Border Cooperation
With both countries sharing a volatile border region, the two leaders agreed to boost border security in light of threats from terrorist elements, ensuring safety for people on both sides.
President Pezeshkian highlighted that the development of land, air, and sea routes would facilitate smoother trade and communication, supporting peace and prosperity across the region.
Joint Stance Against Double Standards
Both leaders criticized the double standards of international institutions, urging global bodies to respect sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations and to act against the spillover of conflicts that risk regional stability.
Warm Diplomatic Reception
President Pezeshkian, on his first visit to Pakistan since taking office, expressed deep gratitude to the people and government of Pakistan for the warm welcome, referring to Pakistan as his “second home.”
