Pakistan-Iran Vow Enhanced Trade, Regional Peace, and Support for Palestine

TEHRAN, May 26:  Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held comprehensive talks on Monday at Sa’dabad Palace, pledging to boost bilateral trade and investment and enhance cooperation on regional peace and security.

During a joint media address following the high-level delegation talks, Prime Minister Shehbaz termed the meeting “productive and comprehensive,” noting full alignment between both sides on expanding ties in economy, politics, and regional stability.

“Pakistan and Iran are bound by historical and cultural ties. We are now committed to translating that into strategic and economic cooperation,” the Prime Minister stated.

Focus on Economic Growth and Border Security

Both leaders agreed on the urgent need to strengthen border security, counter cross-border terrorism, and promote economic interdependence. They also stressed the importance of fully implementing previous agreements to support sustainable growth.

President Pezeshkian emphasized:

“Peace and stability in Pakistan are directly linked to Iran’s interests. We will continue to collaborate on making our shared borders safe from terrorist activities.”

Regional Dialogue and Crisis Management

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif appreciated President Pezeshkian for expressing solidarity during recent regional tensions. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to dialogue with India on all critical issues, including Kashmir, trade, and water rights—based on UN Security Council resolutions.

“We are ready for dialogue to ensure regional peace. But if aggression persists, Pakistan will defend its sovereignty at all costs,” Shehbaz affirmed.

He credited Pakistan’s armed forces and national unity for successfully navigating through the recent crisis with India.

Joint Stand on Palestine

Both leaders strongly condemned Israeli atrocities in Gaza, with Shehbaz Sharif highlighting the killing of over 50,000 Palestinians and calling for international pressure to halt the humanitarian crisis.

“It’s time the global community steps up to enforce a lasting ceasefire in Palestine,” he urged, reiterating Pakistan’s full support for Iran’s stance on the Palestinian issue.

President Pezeshkian added:

“As always, we stand with the people of Palestine and denounce the ongoing bloodshed by Israel.”

Shared Vision for Muslim Unity

The Iranian President praised Pakistan’s role in Islamic unity and reaffirmed the importance of joint collaboration under platforms like the OIC. He welcomed the recent Pakistan-India ceasefire and highlighted the need for dialogue among neighboring countries to secure regional peace.

Delegation-Level Participation

The Pakistani delegation included:

• Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar

• Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir

• Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar

• Special Assistant Tariq Fatimi

The Iranian President warmly welcomed Prime Minister Shehbaz and his team, reaffirming Iran’s desire to deepen ties with Pakistan on **all fronts of mutual interest