Iran and Pakistan aim to boost their trade to $10 billion, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi announced on Monday. Raisi described the current levels as unsatisfactory. Raisi spoke during his first visit to Pakistan since the general elections on February 8, following a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad.
Raisi stated that both leaders are dedicated to enhancing high-level bilateral relations and plan to expand political, economic, trade, and cultural ties.
The president also emphasized the two nations’ deep cultural and religious connections, advocating for the exchange of their countries’ potential and capabilities for mutual benefit.
Regarding regional security, Raisi highlighted shared stances on combating terrorism and other threats, underscoring the collective resolve to address these challenges.
Raisi also marked the inauguration of the Mand-Pishin border market with PM Shehbaz, calling for more significant measures to increase cross-border commerce.
He praised Iran’s resilience in transforming sanctions into development opportunities and offered to share technological advancements with Pakistan.
PM Shehbaz admired Raisi’s leadership and emphasized maintaining strong bilateral ties despite various challenges. He envisioned the shared borders as future hubs of commerce and progress.
The leaders also focused on religious, cultural, diplomatic, investment, and security issues in their discussions. PM Shehbaz lauded Iran’s stance against the ongoing conflict in Gaza and thanked Raisi for supporting the people of Kashmir.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also met with President Raisi to discuss ways to deepen bilateral relations and address regional and global issues.