Pakistan, Iran pledge stronger economic and parliamentary ties in high-level talks

Pakistan and Iran on Friday reaffirmed their resolve to strengthen cooperation in trade, economic development, and regional peace during a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Speaker of the Iranian Parliament Dr Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.

According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the Iranian parliamentary delegation, led by Ghalibaf, was warmly received by the prime minister in Islamabad. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral collaboration in key areas of mutual interest, with both sides emphasizing their commitment to deepening economic and parliamentary ties.

Expressing his gratitude to Pakistan, Speaker Ghalibaf said the people of Iran “deeply appreciated and cherished” Islamabad’s support during the recent 12-day Iran-Israel conflict. He also conveyed a message of warmth and respect from Iranian President Masoud Pazeshkian to Prime Minister Shehbaz and the people of Pakistan.

Ghalibaf further thanked National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq for his “positive and robust cooperation,” noting that the two parliaments had played a vital role in strengthening relations between the neighboring countries.

Prime Minister Shehbaz extended his “utmost reverence” to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Pazeshkian, reiterating that both nations share a firm commitment to dialogue, diplomacy, and peaceful resolution of disputes.

He underscored that Pakistan and Iran had both suffered from terrorism and “remain united in their resolve for global peace, prosperity, and cooperation.” The premier added that the two Muslim countries were determined to work together for the unity and progress of the Muslim Ummah.

The meeting was also attended by National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Syed Tariq Fatemi.

Both sides expressed optimism that ongoing discussions could pave the way toward finalizing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to expand bilateral trade and economic connectivity.