Islamabad: Pakistan and Iran have agreed to bolster their border trade and cooperation in the mining sector, following a high-level meeting aimed at strengthening economic ties between the two neighboring countries. The agreement includes initiatives to improve border facilities, maintain round-the-clock border crossings, fortify logistics, and harmonize customs procedures.

According to Radio Pakistan, the consensus was reached during a meeting between Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and a six-member Iranian delegation led by Iran’s Minister of Industry, Mines and Trade, Seyyed Mohammad Atabak. The meeting, held in Islamabad, also focused on enhancing collaboration in the processing and value addition of precious stones.

Prime Minister Sharif emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to its relationship with Iran, reiterating his nation’s dedication to promoting regional peace. He referred to recent discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, highlighting shared views on fostering lasting peace and strengthening bilateral trade relations.

The Prime Minister expressed optimism that persistent efforts would help achieve the bilateral trade target of ten billion dollars, particularly through enhanced trade in food and agricultural commodities. In response, the Iranian Minister expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s hospitality and acknowledged its efforts in promoting regional peace. He affirmed Iran’s interest in expanding economic and trade relations with Pakistan and noted ongoing technical-level discussions on a Free Trade Agreement between the two countries.