Pakistan, Iran Keen To Boost Bilateral Trade
On Sunday, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif stated that the leadership of both Pakistan and Iran is eager to increase the bilateral trade volume to the target of $10 billion at the earliest opportunity.
While addressing a joint press stakeout alongside the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, the Prime Minister mentioned that today, both nations signed several documents aimed at converting them into agreements to achieve the $10 billion trade target. He added that the respective delegations from both sides would conduct further detailed meetings to advance this objective.
During their bilateral discussions, he noted that both parties explored the extensive dimensions of their bilateral relations, brotherly ties, and cultural and religious connections, engaging in thorough discussions to enhance these aspects.
The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation to the Iranian President for his sincere message to the people of Pakistan.
He remarked that in June, Israel, without justification, initiated aggression against Iran, which was vehemently condemned not only by the government of Pakistan but also by the entire population of 240 million Pakistanis, as there was no justification for Israel to incite conflict.
Prime Minister Sharif also conveyed his condolences regarding the martyrdom of Iranian generals, scientists, and civilians during the conflict, offering prayers for the souls of the departed and for the swift recovery of the injured.
He commended the Iranian leadership for demonstrating courage and wisdom in the face of Israeli aggression, noting that the Iranian forces and populace confronted the assault and revealed the vulnerabilities of the Israeli defense system through retaliatory missile strikes.
In his remarks, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, expressed gratitude for the stance taken by the parliament, government, and people of Pakistan in support of Iran during the 10-day Israeli aggression.
He stated that the bonds of affinity and affection between the two nations were deeply entrenched in religion, culture, and history, referencing the poetic verses of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, where he emphasized the importance of unity among Muslim countries.
He added that advancing the neighborhood policy was a priority within their foreign policy, noting that Pakistan was not only a neighbor but also a brotherly nation.
The president conveyed his satisfaction that, fortunately, both sides were initiating serious and sincere efforts for cooperation across various fields, aiming to increase their current trade volume from $3 billion to a projected target of $10 billion.
He mentioned that significant documents were signed today, which would enhance bilateral cooperation in multiple areas.
President Pezeshkian affirmed their commitment to taking steps to implement these agreements, while the development of land, sea, and air routes would facilitate trade.
In light of the threats posed by terrorists in border regions, both parties agreed to bolster border security to ensure the safety of the citizens of both countries, he remarked.
The Iranian president highlighted the necessity for the development of trade and economic cooperation, which would contribute to progress, prosperity, peace, and stability in the region.
He also condemned the Israeli aggression and genocide in Gaza, as well as actions aimed at destabilizing the region.
The Iranian president asserted that both sides believed in the need for cooperation and association among Muslim countries to counter the expansionist ambitions of the Zionist regime and to ensure regional stability.
Iran and Pakistan have urged global organizations to abandon double standards and to cease the spillover of war, as well as violations of sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations, he added.
He expressed his delight at arriving in his second home, Pakistan, and extended his gratitude to the government of Pakistan and the prime minister for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to them.
Previously, the Iranian president and the prime minister observed the signing ceremony of 12 distinct agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at strengthening collaboration in areas such as plant protection and quarantine, scientific, technological, and innovative cooperation, information technology, cultural and educational exchange programs, youth initiatives, health, scientific research, a model text of MoU concerning maritime security and fire extinguishing, judicial assistance MoU, implementation programs for product inspection and quality, tourism collaboration, and a joint ministerial statement regarding the free trade agreement.
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