Leaders from Iran and Pakistan recently committed to enhancing their economic and security ties, a decision announced during Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s three-day diplomatic visit to Islamabad. This move marks a concerted effort to ameliorate past discord between the nations, which included cross-border military strikes earlier this year, targeting militants linked to attacks on their security forces.
Upon President Raisi’s arrival, both leaders convened at the office of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The backdrop to their discussions included stringent security measures across the city, reflecting the rise of militant violence within Pakistan. During a joint press address, the leaders discussed a series of bilateral issues, particularly emphasizing counter-terrorism strategies and economic growth.
A focal point of their dialogue involved condemning the ongoing conflict in Gaza. President Raisi critiqued the support Israel receives from Western nations and voiced concerns over the perceived hypocrisy of international organizations regarding human rights. Both leaders praised each other’s stance on Palestine, reinforcing their shared perspective against the backdrop of international conflict.
Economic discussions centered on the ‘unacceptably’ low trade volumes between the two countries. President Raisi expressed urgency in boosting commerce through the creation of additional border markets. This initiative follows the inauguration of the first such market in Pakistan’s Baluchistan province, established under a 2012 agreement aimed at creating five more.
The dialogues also touched on the long-stalled multibillion-dollar gas pipeline project, initially launched in 2013 to transport Iranian natural gas to energy-deficient Pakistan. Despite the completion of Iran’s portion of the pipeline, construction on the Pakistani side has faltered, a delay exacerbated by U.S. opposition due to sanctions related to Tehran’s nuclear program.
President Raisi’s visit will include meetings with other key Pakistani officials, including President Asif Ali Zardari and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. These encounters are anticipated to broaden discussions on regional and global issues, underscoring the leaders’ pledge to foster peace and constructive dialogue
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