AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
Islamabad: Pakistan and Iran have announced an ambitious target to increase their bilateral trade to ten billion dollars. During a joint press conference in Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian revealed their commitment to strengthen economic ties through multiple bilateral agreements and memorandums of understanding.
According to Radio Pakistan, the two leaders addressed the recent geopolitical tensions and reiterated their mutual stance against terrorism. Prime Minister Sharif condemned Israel’s recent actions against Iran and emphasized Pakistan’s support for Iran’s right to pursue nuclear technology for peaceful purposes under the UN Charter. He also highlighted the countries’ shared views on terrorism, stating that no form of terrorism would be tolerated in either nation.
The leaders also discussed the ongoing situation in Gaza, urging the international community to demand an immediate ceasefire. Prime Minister Sharif praised Iran for its steadfast support of the Palestinian people and confirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with Palestine. He drew parallels between the situations in Gaza and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the need for granting the Kashmiri people their right to self-determination.
Iranian President Pezeshkian expressed gratitude towards Pakistan for its support during recent Israeli aggression and emphasized the strong brotherly relations between the two countries. He highlighted efforts to deepen bilateral relations across various dimensions and affirmed their shared commitment to combat terrorism and ensure border peace.
The two leaders agreed on several initiatives to enhance trade, including the facilitation of barter trade, increased export quotas, and operationalization of border markets. Prime Minister Sharif called for the early convening of the 22nd Joint Economic Commission between Pakistan and Iran to further these discussions.
President Pezeshkian extended an invitation to Prime Minister Sharif to visit Iran, aiming to continue talks and evaluate progress on bilateral relations. Both leaders concluded the meeting with a strong condemnation of Israeli actions in Gaza and a call for unity among Muslim nations.