Iranian President Begins Landmark Visit to Pakistan, Aims to Boost Bilateral Ties

Lahore — Iranian President Masoud Paz Shekian arrived in Lahore on Friday for a two-day official visit to Pakistan, marking a renewed push to strengthen diplomatic, trade, and regional cooperation between the two neighboring countries. He was warmly received at Allama Iqbal International Airport by Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) leader and former Prime Minister Mian Nawaz Sharif, alongside Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

The arrival ceremony featured full state protocol, including a red carpet reception, beautifully adorned surroundings with Pakistani and Iranian flags, and children presenting floral bouquets to the visiting dignitary. President Paz Shekian affectionately acknowledged the welcome, expressing heartfelt gratitude to Pakistan’s leadership.

Accompanied by a senior delegation that includes Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, the Iranian president is set to hold key meetings with President Asif Ali Zardari and National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq in Islamabad later today. His Lahore engagements included a symbolic visit to the Mazar-e-Iqbal, where he laid a floral wreath in honor of Allama Iqbal.

The city of Lahore was placed under tight security for the high-profile visit, with additional deployment of police and paramilitary Rangers personnel across major routes and strategic points.

Ahead of his visit, President Shekian told Iranian media that discussions with Pakistani leadership would focus on enhancing bilateral trade, economic partnerships, and border security cooperation.

“Our objective is to raise Pakistan-Iran trade volume to $10 billion. We are also eager to actively contribute to the One Belt One Road (BRI) initiative with Pakistan and China, which could provide a strategic gateway for Iran into Europe,” he said.

He also reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to Islamic unity, stating, “All efforts to create division between Pakistan and Iran will be thwarted. Our region needs peace, prosperity, and strong people-to-people ties, which we are determined to promote.”

The Iranian president’s visit signals a fresh chapter in Iran-Pakistan relations, which have faced tensions in recent years due to cross-border incidents and regional geopolitical complexities. However, the current leadership on both sides appears committed to rebuilding trust and expanding cooperation.

Planned areas of collaboration include:

• Joint infrastructure and trade projects
• Enhanced border security mechanisms
• Deeper engagement in China’s BRI

These developments are expected to not only benefit the two nations but also contribute to broader regional stability in South Asia and the Middle East.

A state banquet in President Shekian’s honor is scheduled for this evening, bringing together key figures from Pakistan’s political, military, and diplomatic circles.

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