Pakistan-Iran agree to enhance trade and security cooperation
Pakistan’s Premier Shehbaz Sharif and Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in trade, security, and regional connectivity, according to a statement issued by the Pakistani Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
Despite the existence of several commercial agreements, relations between the two neighboring countries have often been strained. Islamabad has traditionally maintained closer ties with Saudi Arabia and the United States, while efforts to build stronger economic links with Tehran have faced challenges.
Among the most significant yet stalled ventures between the two nations is a gas pipeline agreement signed in 2010. The deal aimed to transport natural gas from Iran’s South Pars field to Pakistan’s Balochistan and Sindh provinces. However, the project has remained inactive amid geopolitical tensions and logistical hurdles. Additionally, both countries continue to face difficulties in managing militancy and unrest along their volatile shared border, frequently accusing each other of inaction against cross-border threats.
During a phone conversation held on Saturday, both leaders expressed a shared commitment to advancing collaboration in areas of mutual interest, including trade, border security, infrastructure connectivity, and fostering closer ties between their citizens, the PMO reported.
President Pezeshkian extended an invitation to Prime Minister Sharif for an official visit to Tehran, which Sharif accepted, signaling a potential step forward in diplomatic engagement.
The discussion also touched upon recent tensions between Pakistan and India, which resulted in significant casualties on both sides. Prime Minister Sharif expressed gratitude to the Iranian president for Tehran’s diplomatic efforts aimed at easing regional tensions. He also reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering determination to protect its sovereignty and national integrity.
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