Pakistan-Iran relations entered a new phase of strength and mutual understanding on Sunday. The presidents of both countries met in Islamabad and reaffirmed their desire to expand cooperation in all sectors. Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian met with President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr to exchange views on important matters.
President Zardari warmly welcomed the Iranian leader and said that Pakistan-Iran relations are rooted in shared faith, culture, and respect. The two heads of state discussed global and regional developments. They stressed the need for joint diplomatic efforts to maintain peace and prevent further conflicts in the region.
President Zardari thanked Iran for always standing by Pakistan during difficult times. He also appreciated Tehran’s strong stance on key regional matters. The president reaffirmed Pakistan’s firm resolve to work hand-in-hand with Iran for a peaceful and stable region.
He extended gratitude to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for consistently supporting the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). President Zardari also condemned the unprovoked Israeli aggression against Iran. He praised the bravery of the Iranian nation during the recent 12-day conflict. He said this visit would further deepen the brotherly connection between the two nations.
President Pezeshkian thanked the people and government of Pakistan for their sincere support during the war. He appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting peace through diplomacy and dialogue.
Earlier in the day, President Pezeshkian also met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Prime Minister’s House. He received a guard of honour and attended the official welcome ceremony. Both leaders discussed matters of regional, bilateral, and global interest.
Prime Minister Shehbaz was joined by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and senior officials. The premier highlighted the historic bilateral ties between the two nations and reaffirmed support for the Iranian leadership, armed forces, and citizens.
He expressed sorrow over the loss of Iranian military officials and civilians during the war. He prayed for the quick recovery of those injured. The PM also thanked Iran for supporting Pakistan during the past standoff with India.
President Pezeshkian, in return, thanked Pakistan for its unwavering friendship. He assured that Iran would always remember Pakistan’s gesture of solidarity.
The prime minister stressed the need to expand Pakistan-Iran relations in areas like trade, culture, and connectivity. He proposed the early meeting of the 22nd Joint Economic Commission to strengthen economic ties further.
Later, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani held a separate meeting with the Iranian president. He welcomed the visit and said it would further boost mutual respect and cooperation. Gillani congratulated President Pezeshkian on Iran’s resilience during the conflict with Israel.
He noted that Pakistan was among the first countries to support Iran’s right to self-defense under international law. Gillani reminded him that Pakistan’s Parliament passed a resolution condemning Israel and supporting Iranian sovereignty.
Gillani emphasized the importance of diplomacy. “War is not the answer,” he said. He hoped for lasting peace in West Asia and the Middle East.
He also praised the warm slogan “Tashakkur Pakistan” (Thank you, Pakistan) that echoed in the Iranian Parliament. He called it a sign of the deep and sincere diplomatic relationship shared by both countries. Gillani also thanked Ayatollah Khamenei for his consistent backing of the Kashmir cause.
Both sides explored ways to enhance parliamentary ties, boost trade, and promote cultural exchanges. Gillani highlighted the crucial role of the Pakistan-Iran Parliamentary Friendship Group in building dialogue and encouraging people-to-people contact.
The recent engagements marked a new chapter in Pakistan-Iran relations, with a clear vision of peace, progress, and unity.