Solidarity in Action: Prime Minister Sharif Affirms Iran-Pakistan Unity in All Situations
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to embark on an official visit to Iran, emphasizing the strong diplomatic ties between the two nations. In an exclusive interview with IRNA, Sharif highlighted the enduring partnership that has weathered various challenges over the years.
During his upcoming visit to Tehran, Prime Minister Sharif expressed optimism regarding the ongoing indirect nuclear negotiations involving Iran and the United States, hoping for favorable outcomes.
The following is the complete interview with Pakistan’s Prime Minister:
- Assessing Pakistan-Iran Relations
Sharif reflected on his previous visit to Iran, where he extended condolences to the Iranian nation after the tragic passing of President Ebrahim Raisi. He stated:
“One of my best memories is to have met President Raisi before his martyrdom in a tragic plane crash. Pakistan was the last country he visited before his passing away. May Allah rest his soul in peace. He was a very inspiring, thoughtful, and farsighted person. I had an excellent interaction with him. We both decided to elevate Pakistan-Iran ties to the highest level and diversify its base to a range of areas. I am very glad that it has been successfully done. Today our relationship is far more robust and stronger.”
- Objectives of the Visit
When asked about the goals of his visit, Sharif responded:
“I am visiting Iran again at the invitation of President Masoud Pezeshkian. Since his assumption of office, I have met him several times and have had numerous telephone conversations with him. The principal objective of my visit is to thank Iran for supporting and standing by us during our conflict with India.”
He further added:
“India, as you know, imposed war on us, which we repulsed through a decisive but measured and well-calibrated response consistent with international humanitarian law. So, I want to thank Iranian leadership for its support and its offer for mediation, which we accepted but India rejected.”
- Regional Cooperation
On the topic of regional cooperation between Tehran and Islamabad, Sharif praised Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi for his diplomatic skills:
“Pakistan has stood by Iran on Israel’s genocidal and catastrophic war on Gaza. Islamabad and Tehran will continue to support each other on issues of the Muslim Ummah and regional cooperation.”
- Economic Collaboration
Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the importance of economic ties between the two nations:
“I strongly believe that the economic destiny of both Iran and Pakistan are linked. We have a border of about 900 kilometers. I personally believe that strong economic linkage between Pakistan’s Balochistan and Iran’s Sistan-and-Baluchestan can be good for the entire region. It can also be very effective in dealing with terrorism.”
He mentioned future trade goals, stating:
“Our trade is about $3 billion. It has increased significantly in the past three to four years. We want to take it up to $10 billion in the next few years, but I think the potential is much larger than that as well. We are discussing signing a free trade agreement (FTA).”
- Support for Nuclear Deal
Sharif also reiterated Pakistan’s support for Iran’s peaceful nuclear program:
“We believe that negotiations, diplomacy, and engagement are the best solutions because, in this way, we can avoid conflicts and wars. It is important to promote peace, development, and security in the region. I have great faith in Iran’s leadership. I am quite hopeful that positive things will come out of these negotiations.”
- Iran’s Role in Regional Stability
Regarding Iran’s position in the context of South Asia, Sharif expressed gratitude for Iran’s mediation efforts:
“We are also grateful to President Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Araqchi for their efforts to defuse tensions in South Asia. These efforts clearly demonstrate that Iran wants to pursue peace and stability and avoid war.”
- Addressing Global Issues
Finally, when discussing the unresolved issues of Palestine and Kashmir, Sharif stated:
“I strongly believe that until the resolution of the conflict of Kashmir and Palestine, there can be no peace and justice in the region. It is critically important that these issues are resolved in accordance with the aspirations of their people.”
As Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif prepares for his visit, the prospects for enhanced cooperation and stability between Pakistan and Iran look promising, fostering hope for the future of both nations.
