Pezeshkian and Zardari Emphasize Strengthening Bilateral Relations for a Brighter Future

In a significant diplomatic event, President Asif Ali Zardari welcomed Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Islamabad, marking a pivotal moment in the strengthening of Pakistan-Iran relations. This meeting, part of President Pezeshkian’s two-day visit to Pakistan, aimed to enhance bilateral cooperation across various sectors.

Pakistan and Iran share a rich history of collaboration, having signed numerous agreements in areas such as energy and trade. According to a statement from the Pakistani Presidency, both leaders “reaffirmed their commitment to further broaden bilateral cooperation in diverse fields” and underscored the need to enhance ties in mutually beneficial areas.

During their discussions, President Zardari highlighted the brotherly relations between Pakistan and Iran, grounded in shared religion, culture, and mutual respect. The leaders exchanged views on major regional and international developments, emphasizing the necessity for coordinated diplomatic efforts to prevent conflict escalation and promote peace, security, and stability in the region.

• President Zardari praised Iran’s stance on regional issues.
• He expressed gratitude for Iran’s solidarity during critical times.
• Both leaders committed to collaborating closely for a peaceful and prosperous future.

Furthermore, President Zardari extended his thanks to Iranian Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for his unwavering support for the Muslim community. He also condemned the unprovoked Israeli aggression against Iran, lauding the bravery and unity of the Iranian nation during the recent 12-day conflict. The statement noted that “President Zardari expressed hope that President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian’s visit would further solidify the brotherly relations between the two countries.”

In reciprocation, President Pezeshkian thanked the Pakistani leadership and its people for their support during the 12-day war. He highlighted Pakistan’s constructive role in advocating for de-escalation, dialogue, and diplomacy as pathways to resolve disputes peacefully.

Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed the eagerness of both Pakistani and Iranian leadership to elevate the bilateral trade volume to $10 billion. This ambitious target was shared during a joint statement, coinciding with the signing of 12 agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) by both nations.

According to the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), “Both countries signed a number of documents to transform them into agreements and to realize the potential of the $10bn trade target.” The respective delegations are expected to hold detailed meetings to advance this initiative.

During the bilateral meeting, leaders discussed the broad aspects of their relationship, including religious and cultural ties, and engaged in comprehensive talks aimed at enhancing cooperation.

In a joint press briefing, Prime Minister Sharif condemned the Israeli attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities, referencing an incident on June 13, which resulted in significant casualties. The Iranian government reported that 610 people were killed during the conflict, while human rights organizations placed the figure at 974.

Prime Minister Sharif stated, “Israel, without any rhyme or reason, unleashed aggression against Iran, which was not only strongly condemned by the government of Pakistan but by the entire 240 million Pakistani people.” He expressed condolences for the loss of Iranian generals, scientists, and civilians, praying for the departed souls and the recovery of the injured.

Furthermore, he commended the Iranian leadership for their resilience and strategic response during the aggression, noting how Iranian forces effectively countered the attacks with retaliatory missile strikes.

Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s principled stance on Iran’s right to pursue a nuclear program for peaceful purposes, as outlined in the UN charter, and emphasized Pakistan’s unwavering support for this position.

In addressing the issue of terrorism, both leaders agreed that it is intolerable in any form. “If anyone in Iran was affected by terrorism, it was akin to a victim of terror in Pakistan,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for both nations to collaborate effectively in combating terrorism.

On behalf of the people and the government of Pakistan, Prime Minister Sharif warmly welcomed President Pezeshkian on his inaugural visit to Pakistan. In his remarks, President Pezeshkian expressed gratitude for the support received from the Pakistani parliament, government, and people during the recent Israeli aggression.

He articulated that the bonds of affinity between the two nations are deeply rooted in shared religion, culture, and history, invoking the poetic verses of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, which advocate for unity among Muslim countries.

President Pezeshkian added, “Advancing the neighborhood policy is among the priorities of Iran’s foreign policy, as Pakistan is not only our neighbor but also a brotherly country.” He expressed satisfaction with the serious efforts being initiated to enhance cooperation across various fields, aiming to elevate the current trade volume of $3 billion to the projected target of $10 billion.

In conclusion, President Pezeshkian assured that his government is determined to take necessary steps to implement the newly signed agreements, emphasizing the importance of developing land, sea, and air routes to facilitate trade between the two countries.