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Islamabad, June 21, 2023 (PPI-OT): Pakistan and Iran have pledged stronger bonds through religious tourism and trade cooperation. Javed Iqbal reports from Makkah that Pakistan and Iran have reiterated their resolve to further enhance cooperation in facilitating pilgrims and extending economic cooperation through border trade. In a meeting with Iran’s Minister and Representative of Supreme Leaders for Pilgrimage and Ziarat Syed Fateh Nawab, in Makkah, Minister for Religious Affairs Senator Talha Mehmood said the Memorandum of Understanding regarding the Ziarat of sacred places in Iran has been sent to the Iranian Embassy in Pakistan through our representative from the Foreign Ministry.
Talha Mahmood expressed his utmost desire for the MoU to evolve into a formal agreement, aiming to foster an enriching cultural exchange between the two countries. He voiced his aspiration to formalize and streamline the border trade between the two countries, which currently takes place through Dubai. Recognizing the significant potential for bilateral trade, the Minister emphasized the importance of establishing regularized channels for commerce between the two nations. He highlighted the importance of Iran’s assistance during the 1965 war and stressed the need for a strong partnership to promote the prosperity and progress of both nations. He emphasized the significance of supporting each other in combating economic challenges and difficulties.
He also revealed his forthcoming plans to lead a delegation on a visit to Iran in the near future. Talha Mahmood emphasized the geographical proximity between Pakistan and Iran, stating that this inherent closeness cannot be altered. He expressed the belief in mutual support as neighbouring countries and emphasized the need to prioritize assistance in financial matters, including the resolution of issues concerning Iran. Talha Mahmood emphasized his commitment to maintaining a strong collaboration with the top leadership of the State Bank of Pakistan and the Ministry of Finance to facilitate the establishment of a branch of an Iranian bank in Pakistan.
Talha announced the successful accomplishment of his goal to establish an agreement with Iran, aimed at enhancing border trade and fostering economic cooperation between the two nations. Talha Mahmood mentioned that he holds a portfolio of Saffron and is actively addressing the issues concerning Afghan refugees. He expressed his acknowledgement and gratitude for Iran’s instrumental role in providing assistance to Afghan refugees in Pakistan. He further emphasized the ongoing reshaping of our region and the potential for promoting prosperity by fostering cooperation with neighbouring countries like China and Iran.
He mentioned his efforts to expand the Road to Makkah initiative to include at least two additional airports in Pakistan by the next year. He expressed that the Saudi government is expanding the project, and he wishes for Tehran airport to be considered for inclusion in this initiative. The Minister also offered presents to his Iranian counterpart, as well as to the Iranian pilgrims and the staff of the mission. Speaking on the occasion, Syed Fateh Nawab reiterated the continued close cooperation between Pakistan and Iran.
He emphasized the historical friendship between the two countries, underscoring the significance of maintaining border trade. Syed Fateh Nawab also mentioned the joint protest by Pakistan and Iran against the desecration of Bait ul Muqadas. He acknowledged Iran’s role in hosting and assisting Zairean pilgrims on their journey to Iraq and expressed hope for further facilities to be provided to them after the finalization of the memorandum of understanding.
For more information, contact:
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Government of Pakistan
4th Floor, Cabinet Block, Pak. Secretariat, Islamabad, Pakistan
Tel: +92-51-9103557
Email: info@moib.gov.pk
Website: http://www.moib.gov.pk
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