President Calls for Enhanced Trade, People-to-People Ties with Iran

Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has directed Pakistan’s Ambassador-designate to Iran, Imran Ahmed Siddiqui to work towards further strengthening bilateral relations, with particular focus on trade, people-to-people contacts and facilitation of Pakistani Zaireen visiting Iran. He was talking to Ambassador-designate, Imran Ahmed Siddiqui who called on him at Aiwan-e-Sadr this evening.

According to Radio Pakistan, the President said Pakistan attaches high importance to its relations with Iran, rooted in shared history, cultural affinities and a long common border. He emphasized the need to facilitate legitimate cross-border trade and connectivity and work towards increasing bilateral trade.

The President directed the Ambassador-designate to proactively engage with civil society, students and local leaders in Iran and ensure effective consular outreach for the welfare of the Pakistani diaspora, students and businesses. Referring to the regional situation, President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Iran’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and political independence. He said Pakistan remains committed to working closely with Iran for regional peace and stability.

The President congratulated the Ambassador-designate on his appointment and expressed confidence that the Ambassador-designate would contribute meaningfully to further strengthening Pakistan-Iran relations.