Islamabad: Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi met with Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni in Islamabad, where both officials agreed to strengthen ties in railway cooperation, regional connectivity, and bilateral trade. The meeting was also attended by Iran’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Reza Amiri Moghadam.

According to Press Information Department, Abbasi welcomed the Iranian delegation, expressing belief that the visit would bolster the longstanding relations between Pakistan and Iran. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral railway cooperation, cross-border connectivity, and economic collaboration. Abbasi highlighted the planned upgradation of Main Line-3 (ML-3), a key corridor connecting the two countries, set to improve train speeds and trade by December 2029.

Abbasi acknowledged Iran’s efforts in restoring the Zahedan-Taftan railway section and announced that Pakistan has designated Taftan Railway Station as a Customs Clearance Station to facilitate freight movement. The cooperation remains underpinned by the 1959 Bilateral Railway Agreement and the 2025 Framework of Cooperation.

The meeting also addressed the revival of the Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul Freight Train service, anticipated to enhance trade among Pakistan, Iran, and Türkiye, and improve regional connectivity with Central Asia and Europe.

Iranian Interior Minister Momeni expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s hospitality and support during recent regional tensions, highlighting the deep-rooted relations between the two nations. Momeni reiterated Iran’s commitment to expanding cooperation in various sectors, contributing to regional peace and prosperity.